Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3): benefits, dosage, contraindications

Essential

Dietary sources of ALA are necessary during pregnancy and breastfeeding, not only due to their rich nutritional composition, but also to avoid complex mixes of plant-based supplements which might endanger the health of the mother and child. Plant sources of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may be considered an option for pregnant women who cannot tolerate fatty fish. The quantity and profile of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ingested by the breastfeeding mother are crucial for the infant's health, as the mother's diet directly influences the fatty acid profile of breast milk. Exclusively vegan diets must be carefully examined due to the risk of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid deficiency.

Usages associés

Cardiovascular

Myocardial infarction is a complex process initiated by endothelial injury to the coronary artery, lipid accumulation in the vascular wall, inflammatory reactions causing plaque rupture, and subsequent thrombus formation. Fatty acids have varying effects on these biological processes. However, alpha-linolenic acid does not seem to have the same physiological effects as EPA and DHA. Indeed, ALA lowers plasma triglycerides and slightly increases HDL- and LDL-cholesterol. Furthermore, the relationship between ALA consumption and the occurrence of coronary events is less well established, unlike EPA and DHA, which reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease and sudden death. The effects of EPA and DHA seem to be similar to those of alpha-linolenic acid regarding hemostatic factors such as thromboxane production, bleeding time, and other factors.

Usages associés

Anticancer

Alpha-linolenic acid seems to play a role in breast cancer prevention. There is evidence that women with higher levels of alpha-linolenic acid in breast adipose tissue have a lower risk of breast cancer. Researchers believe that a high intake of alpha-linolenic acid may have a protective effect against cancer.

Anti-inflammatory

ALA decreases the production of arachidonic acid and reduces the biosynthesis of inflammatory eicosanoids, but not to the extent of EPA and DHA. Cytokines, another important group of inflammatory mediators that are generated in response to inflammatory eicosanoids, are influenced by changes in omega-3/omega-6 ratios in cell membranes. A number of studies have confirmed that high-dose consumption of flaxseed oil, which is rich in ALA, reduces endothelial inflammation and decreases levels of inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein and interleukin (IL)-6, as well as some adhesion markers.