The seeds of the borage (Borago officinalis) naturally contain a lot of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid. This fatty acid is not called 'essential' because healthy adults can form the substance in their own bodies. It mainly involves the conversion of linoleic acid, a component of many vegetable oils. GLA is a precursor of type E1 prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are a specific group of fatty acids produced by the body's cells. They are released into the intercellular fluid and have various effects on the surrounding cells, depending on the type of prostaglandin. An increased intake of GLA through food leads to an increased production of E1 prostaglandins, which play a role in numerous functions in the body. This effect does not occur with other omega-6 fatty acids.

It is normal for the body's own production of gamma-linolenic acid to decrease as we age. The cause is the decreasing activity of the enzyme delta-6 desaturase, which is necessary for the conversion of linoleic acid into GLA.

The best GLA sources are not found in our daily diet. Borage (Borago officinalis) contains up to 20% GLA. The oil from blackcurrant seeds contains 15-17% and evening primrose ranks third with 8-10% GLA. Hemp oil contains small amounts of the substance.

What are sources of GLA?

Borage
Blackcurrants
Breast milk
Evening primrose
Seaweed

What is omega-3?
Omega-3 fatty acids are very important polyunsaturated fatty acids mainly found in fish, particularly in oily fish like herring, salmon, and mackerel. Two essential omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These fatty acids are important elements in the structure of all cells. They ensure the flexibility of the cell membrane and affect the fluid volume, essential factors for the proper functioning of the cell. Omega-3 fatty acids are precursors of type E3 and E4 prostaglandins.

Superior absorption thanks to free fatty acids
Bio-Omega 3&6 has a very high absorption rate because all the fatty acids in the product are in the form of free fatty acids. Usually, fatty acids are in the form of triglycerides that must first be digested and broken down into 'free' fatty acids in the intestinal tract before they can be absorbed by the body. This is done with the help of the digestive enzyme lipase. In Bio-Omega 3&6, the fatty acids are already broken down and can therefore be absorbed immediately from the intestinal tract, without the intervention of enzymes. This is especially important for people who are less able to absorb lipids.

Overdosing is virtually impossible
Overdosing with Bio-Omega 3&6 is virtually impossible as the average intake of regular fatty acids from food is much greater than what the capsules contain. A healthy adult is capable of producing about 20 mg/kg/day of DGLA, and babies receive large amounts of GLA through breast milk. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential, which means they are vital because the body cannot produce them itself.

Those who use 1 to 2 capsules per day take in the equivalent of 2-4 mg per kilogram of body weight.

GLA, EPA, DHA

Per capsule:
Borage oil 360 mg
of which GLA 80 mg
Fish oil (free fatty acids) 140 mg
of which EPA 45 mg
of which DHA 33 mg
of which AA 5.3 mg

1 to 2 capsules per day, with a meal.