3 Ways Omega-3s Promote Gut Health, Function & Integrity*

Omega-3s offer incredible benefits that extend beyond heart and brain health support.* One unexpected perk of consuming omega-3s? Gut health.

A 2021 scientific review titled "Associations among Dietary Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, the Gut Microbiota, and Intestinal Immunity" outlines the ways omega-3s can help modulate the gut microbiome and promote gut immunity.* 

In fact, higher concentrations of omega-3s in the blood are correlated with an elevated abundance of microbiota in the gut—and not just from diet.* A 2017 review1 published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that the gut microbiota of adults positively changed after taking omega-3 supplements.*

Let's talk about a crucial element of immune system defense: mucus. The optimal function of the gastrointestinal mucus system2 is integral to gut health and immunity, and omega-3s play a key role in helping promote mucus (aka mucosal) integrity.* 

These healthy polyunsaturated fatty acids help protect intestinal cells, support intestinal mucosal thickness, and promote proper barrier function of the intestinal mucosa, all of which are vital for immune function in the gut.*

Omega-3s have some seriously potent anti-inflammatory properties that help promote gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neurological, joint, and whole-body health.*

In addition to modulating the production of anti-inflammatory compounds, omega-3s are known to modulate critical immune responses and combat pro-inflammatory pathways in the gut.*

Given their widespread benefits, it's pretty obvious that omega-3s are vitally important to gut health and function—but the relationship goes the other way too.* 

Microorganisms in the GI tract are crucial for the biotransformation of fatty acids. In other words, a healthy gut is key for optimal absorption and metabolism of omega-3 fatty acids.