Omega 3-metabolism, absorption, bioavailability and health benefits-A review

For maintaining human health and preventing diseases, interest has been started to develop towards consumption of essential fatty acids. It is positively correlated that consumption of EFA and prevention of heart disease, hypertension, inflammation, cancer prevention, neurological disorders etc. alpha-Linolenic acid (ALA) also known as omega-3 is an EFA found in plant foods. On consumption, ALA serves as substrate for the synthesis of EPA and DHA, which play a central role in the proper functioning of the nervous system like anti-atherogenic properties and favourable in lowering BP and heart rate and improving the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Protective cardiac effect of EFAs are related to BP, arterial compliance, improved lipid metabolism and anti-inflammatory properties. Although consumption of omega-3 is beneficial, there is the requirement of more research on properties, absorption, metabolism and bioavailability of omega-3 fatty acids. Keeping this in mind, this review summarized the metabolism, absorption, bioavailability and health benefits of EFA.