One study has shown that vegetarians and vegans have lower DHA levels in their blood than individuals who consume animal products. This is significant given that DHA is highly important for brain function, vision and general health.
Vegetarian and vegan products containing algae oil can be a useful alternative to compensate for this deficiency.
DHA-rich algae oil thus represents a plant-based source of this important fatty acid. The SGE recommends that vegetarians and vegans turn to these algae oil products or, if necessary, use algae oil omega-3 dietary supplements to ensure adequate DHA consumption in their diet.
Vegetarians & vegans
25. September 2023
Due to their specific diet, vegetarians and vegans have a special requirements for the intake of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential nutrients can of course be found in plant-based sources such as linseed oil and walnuts in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), but the conversion of ALA into the highly important docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has an efficiency of only around 10%. As a result it is often a challenge for vegetarians and vegans to get enough DHA in their diets.
The Swiss Society for Nutrition (SGE) stresses that a balanced plant-based diet can be fundamentally beneficial to the health of vegetarians and vegans. It is nevertheless highly important that they consume certain nutrients, particularly omega-3 fatty acids.
What has already been learned
A balanced diet is the key to success
The importance of DHA for developing and maintaining brain function and vision emphasises the need for careful dietary planning to ensure that all necessary nutrients are part of a vegetarian or vegan diet. It is recommended that you follow SGE guidelines and, if necessary, consult a nutritional expert to ensure a balanced and healthy diet that takes into consideration the specific needs of vegetarian and vegan lifestyles.
Vegetarians and vegans should also plan their diets so that they contain foods rich in ALA, such as linseed, chia seeds and walnuts. These foods provide the foundation for the body’s own DHA production.
In addition, vegan and vegetarian dietary plans should be carefully designed to ensure that they contain sufficient calcium, iron, vitamin B12 and other important nutrients. A varied, diverse diet can help avoid deficiencies and improve the health of vegetarians and vegans.
Overall, it is crucial for vegetarians and vegans to recognise the significance of omega-3 fatty acids and DHA for their diets and take appropriate measures to ensure that they are consuming enough of these essential nutrients. It can be helpful to seek the support of nutritional experts and follow SGE guidelines to guarantee a healthy, balanced intake for these diets.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
OMEGA life® Vegan
OMEGA life® Vegan is the vegan alternative for all vegetarians, vegans and people who have an aversion or allergy to fish and fish products.
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