Omega-3: More than a supplement

June 2026

Key ingredients · Omega-3

More than a supplement

Why omega-3 fatty acids from algae oil are among the most thoroughly researched nutrients – and what EPA and DHA really do in the body.

Vitartis Premium Omega 3 Oil (Swiss 3) · Reading time approx. 7 minutes

Hardly any nutrient has occupied nutritional research as much in recent decades as long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid). They are not a fad, but an integral component of our cell membranes – in the brain, the heart muscle, and the retina of the eye. The body can only produce them to a very limited extent. What is lacking must be obtained through diet.

And this is precisely the problem: those who rarely eat fatty fish hardly reach the Omega-3 Index, which is considered favorable. Plant-based sources such as nuts or rapeseed oil do provide the precursor ALA, but hardly any usable EPA and DHA. Vitartis Premium Omega 3 Oil therefore relies on... pure algae oil – the same source from which fish obtain their Omega-3, only without the detour via the animal and without the risk of heavy metals or microplastics.

EPA and DHA are not just a supplement on the side of a diet. They are building blocks for the brain, heart, and eyes.

01EPA & DHA: What the research shows

The effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the cardiovascular system are among the most intensively researched areas in nutritional medicine. A comprehensive meta-analysis by 38 randomized controlled trials, published in eClinicalMedicine (The Lancet, 2021), summarized the data.

Meta-analysis · 38 RCTs Across all evaluated studies, omega-3 fatty acid intake was associated with a reduction in cardiovascular mortality and other cardiovascular events. Studies using pure EPA showed greater relative risk reductions than studies using EPA+DHA.
Source: Khan et al., eClinicalMedicine 2021.

A second major analysis – the Meta-analysis and meta-regression in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings (2020) – additionally examined the influence of doseThe result: The benefit for cardiovascular endpoints increased with higher EPA/DHA intake, underscoring the importance of adequately dosed supply. Vitartis oil provides [amount] per teaspoon. 2,123 mg Omega-3, of which 1,158 mg DHA and 579 mg EPA.

What is guaranteed for which quantity

The health claims permitted in the EU and Switzerland are linked to specific daily amounts:

Effect	From daily amount
DHA contributes to normal brain function	250 mg DHA
DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal vision.	250 mg DHA
EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function.	250 mg EPA+DHA
Contribution to normal triglyceride levels	2 g EPA+DHA
Contribution to normal blood pressure	3 g EPA+DHA

The total daily intake of EPA and DHA should not exceed 5 g.

One teaspoon of Vitartis Omega 3 Oil significantly exceeds the thresholds for brain, vision and heart function with DHA and EPA – thus comfortably covering the everyday relevant claims.

02The companion: Ubiquinol (active Q10)

Omega 3 Oil is more than just a source of fatty acids. It also contains... 30 mg ubiquinol – the active, reduced form of coenzyme Q10. Q10 plays a central role in energy production in the mitochondria, the "powerhouses" of our cells. Ubiquinol is particularly interesting because it can act directly as an antioxidant and is more easily absorbed by the body than the oxidized form ubiquinone.

03Vitamin D3, K2 and E – the foundation around them

Especially in northern latitudes, many people don't get enough vitamin D from sunlight. Vitartis Omega 3 Oil provides enough vitamin D per teaspoon. 50 µg Vitamin D3 (2,000 IU), combined with Vitamin K2Both contribute to the maintenance of normal bones; vitamin D also contributes to normal muscle function and the normal function of the immune system. The contained natural vitamin E (d-alpha-Tocopherol) protects the sensitive fatty acids – and the cells – from oxidative stress.

Why algae oil instead of fish oil?

The oil is extracted from the microalgae in closed tanks. Schizochytrium Sourced – purely plant-based and vegan. This means: no fishy aftertaste, no risk of exposure to heavy metals or microplastics, and a sustainable source independent of wild fishing. The mild lemon flavor makes daily consumption pleasant.

04For whom is a daily teaspoon worthwhile?

People with a diet low in fish, vegetarians and vegans with a need for plant-based EPA/DHA, working professionals and students under high mental stress, and anyone who wants to actively and preventively support their heart health and healthy aging will particularly benefit. A measurable increase in the Omega-3 Index and vitamin D levels in the blood is typically seen after about three months of consistent intake.

Scientific references

Khan SU et al. Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. eClinicalMedicine (The Lancet), 2021. (38 RCTs)
Bernasconi AA et al. Effect of Omega-3 Dosage on Cardiovascular Outcomes: An Updated Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2020.
EFSA / Swiss Health Claims Ordinance: permitted claims for EPA and DHA (brain, heart, eyesight, triglycerides, blood pressure).

A notice: Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced, varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. The recommended daily intake must not be exceeded. This product is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children and adolescents under 18 years of age. The studies mentioned refer to individual ingredients and do not constitute product-specific health claims.