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At Seeds of Wellness by Benexia, we specialize in the production of chia seeds and their derivatives, aware of the benefits that the Omega-3 ALA this powerful seed has for health. We have thus decided to demystify certain concepts. A recurring theme about Omega-3 is the perception that ALA, a type of plant-based Omega-3, is not useful or that it is converted very little into DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, which is a crucial type of Omega-3 for brain and eye health and found in fatty fish, fish oil and algae). However, new and advanced research is overturning this belief and showing that our body is so intelligent and works so perfectly that the conversion of ALA to DHA is exactly what our body needs, that is, just the right amount necessary.
The omega-3 family is made up of three fatty acids: ALA, EPA, and DHA. Our body cannot produce ALA, so we must obtain it from the diet. Fortunately, the body can convert ALA to EPA and DHA, although this conversion is thought to be only 1%. ALA is found in foods of plant origin, while EPA and DHA are found in seafood.
For years, it has been believed that the conversion of ALA to DHA is insufficient to meet the needs of the brain and body. This belief has led many to prioritize marine sources of Omega-3 DHA, such as fatty fish and algal oil supplements. However, this perception does not take into account how much DHA we actually need on a daily basis.
Dr. Richard Bazinet, Professor and Canadian Research Chair in Brain Lipid Metabolism at the University of Toronto, explained that the adult brain maintains approximately 4 grams of DHA at all times and uses a small amount each day, which it then replenishes. One study found that only 4 milligrams of DHA enter the brain daily to replenish what is used. This amount, although seemingly small, is sufficient to maintain the necessary levels of DHA in the brain. Therefore, even a "low" conversion rate of ALA to DHA may be sufficient to meet these requirements.
Studies by Dr. Bazinet's team have shown that DHA levels in the brain are almost the same whether this small but necessary amount of DHA comes from marine foods such as fish or from the conversion of ALA from plant sources such as chia. This suggests that ALA from plant sources can effectively contribute to maintaining DHA levels in the brain.
In addition to the health benefits, chia and other ALA-rich foods are key components of a sustainable diet. The production of plant foods has a lower environmental impact compared to foods of animal origin. Marine sources of Omega-3, such as fatty fish, face sustainability issues due to overfishing and the environmental impact of industrial fishing. In contrast, chia production is more sustainable and has a smaller ecological footprint.
In the context of nutritious eating patterns that will sustain a healthy population, we cannot ignore the global challenges we face when it comes to meeting increased food demand and growing climate concerns. According to the FAO, by 2050 we will need to produce 60% more food to feed more than 9 billion people. Sustainable nutrition is essential for the future, as it involves dietary patterns that benefit health and well-being, is safe, accessible and affordable, and preserves biodiversity and planetary health.
At Seeds of Wellness® and our parent company Benexia®, we are committed to sustainable chia production, promoting nutrition that benefits both people and the planet.
It is time to reevaluate the belief that the conversion of ALA to DHA is insufficient. Evidence suggests that this conversion may be exactly what our body needs to maintain brain and overall health. By integrating chia products into your diet, you are not only taking care of your health, but also supporting sustainable and responsible eating.
At Seed of Wellness, we will continue to support research and promote the benefits of Omega-3 ALA, offering high-quality chia products for a healthier life and a more sustainable future.
If you'd like to read more in a recent interview with Dr. Bazinet, click here.
