As a practising health visitor many years ago, EPA was one of the supplements I often recommended when mothers asked what they could do to support their children’s development and wellbeing.

Omega-3 fatty acids play an important role in the body. They help regulate a number of biological processes, including making cell membranes more flexible, reducing inflammation and positively influencing our gut flora.

For many years, the focus has primarily been on DHA when discussing omega-3 and brain development. DHA is also an important building block in the structure of the brain itself. EPA is not a replacement for DHA, but more recent research suggests that EPA has for many years been somewhat overlooked and may play a greater role in both children’s and adults’ brain function than previously recognised.

In children, several studies suggest that EPA may have an impact on learning and concentration. In some studies, sufficient amounts of omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with improved reading and writing skills in schoolchildren. At the same time, EPA plays a role in the brain’s neurotransmitters, which help regulate concentration, attention and behaviour.

EPA may therefore help support children in focusing, planning and managing their attention in everyday life. Some researchers also point to EPA as an important factor in children’s language development.

In adults, EPA is believed, among other things, to contribute to the brain remaining flexible, clear and resilient to the influences it is exposed to.

Omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9

EPA is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid primarily found in oily fish and fish oils, such as salmon, herring and mackerel.

The body can also, to a lesser extent, produce EPA from plant-based omega-3 fatty acids found in, for example, nuts and plant oils, but this conversion is limited.

In addition to its role in the brain, EPA is also part of the cell membranes throughout the body, where it contributes to making the cells more flexible. At the same time, EPA is involved in the body’s regulation of inflammatory processes.

Fish oil and omega-3 are generally best absorbed when taken with a meal.

It is recommended to limit highly sugary foods, as a high sugar intake can affect the body’s fatty acid balance and thereby counteract some of the beneficial effects of healthy fatty acids.

Omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids all play an important role in the body’s functions. Omega-3 and omega-6 in particular are so-called essential fatty acids, which means that the body cannot produce them itself and must therefore obtain them through the diet.

Research has shown, among other things, that fish oil may have a positive effect on joints and mobility in people with arthritis. In some cases, it may help reduce the need for pain-relieving medication.

Both DHA and EPA have also been shown to influence the fatty acid composition in the tear glands. This may increase the production of tear fluid and thereby help counteract dry eyes.

Fish oil is also believed to have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect in some people.

Eggs contain both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Around two thirds of the fatty acids in the egg yolk consist of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. All fat in an egg is found in the yolk in the form of triglycerides, cholesterol and lecithin.

A classic rye bread sandwich with mackerel in tomato sauce is actually an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Both omega-3 and omega-6 are necessary fatty acids for the body, but it is important that there is a reasonable balance between them.

Superfoods – a trend of the time

The term superfood is used to describe foods that are considered to be particularly nutrient-rich and to have health-promoting properties. Examples include chia seeds, blueberries, kale, avocado, berries and nuts.

Our everyday lives are often characterised by busyness. For many people, the modern lifestyle can be both demanding and stressful.

Therefore, some people choose at times to supplement their diet with concentrated plant-based products that contain a broad composition of fibre, healthy fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

An example of such a supergreens product that can be mixed with water or smoothies is a plant-based blend of grasses, algae, vegetables and seeds. The blend may include, among other things, barley grass, wheatgrass, oat grass and alfalfa grass combined with ingredients such as broccoli, kale, ginger root and various algae such as chlorella and spirulina. Some of the ingredients are fermented using lactic acid bacteria and yeast cultures, which may help make the nutrients more available to the body.

The purpose of these products, often referred to as superfoods, is not to replace a healthy and varied diet, but rather to be a practical solution during periods when everyday life is busy.

From a nutritional perspective, there are many ordinary foods that are highly valuable. Clinical dietitian Mette Borre has, among other things, highlighted oats and carrots as good examples of foods that can contribute to a healthy gut flora and a well-functioning immune system. This reminds us that a healthy diet is first and foremost based on ordinary foods.

Kan Jang – a well-known remedy in a new version

I welcome Kan Jang, which is now available in a new and improved version called Kan Jang First Defence, with all my heart.

Through my many years as a health visitor, Kan Jang has helped me and my children countless times when colds, sore throats or the onset of irritation in the upper respiratory tract threatened to develop into days of illness.

Kan Jang has now been introduced in an updated version under the name Kan Jang First Defence. The product contains plant extracts from Andrographis paniculata and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), plants that are traditionally used in connection with colds and periods when the body may need extra support.

The remedy is used by many during periods of colds, sore throats or general discomfort. It can also be used during periods when one feels tired or in need of a little extra care in connection with illness or subsequent recovery.

The product should not be used by children under 12 years of age without medical advice.

Many people choose to keep Kan Jang at home as part of their home remedy cabinet – especially during periods when colds and viral infections are widespread.

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant that belongs to the group of polyphenols. Polyphenols are a group of plant compounds that are naturally found in many foods. They occur, among other things, in fruit, vegetables, tea, coffee and red wine.

In recent years, polyphenols have received considerable attention in research due to their antioxidant properties in plants. Antioxidants are substances that help protect cells from the effects of free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that are formed in the body as part of normal metabolism, but can also arise as a result of, among other things, pollution, stress or smoking. If too many free radicals are formed, they can affect cells and DNA and thereby play a role in the body’s ageing processes.

Resveratrol is naturally found in several foods, including grapes, blueberries, cranberries, peanuts and red wine.

One of the plants particularly known for its high content of resveratrol is Japanese knotweed, which originates from East Asia.

Resveratrol is often combined with other antioxidants, as the different plant compounds can complement each other.

Magnesium – an important mineral for the body

Magnesium is a vital mineral and is involved in a wide range of biochemical processes in the body. In fact, magnesium is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions and plays an important role in the body’s normal functions.

Magnesium contributes, among other things, to normal muscle function and to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth. It also contributes to the normal function of the nervous system as well as to normal energy metabolism. In addition, magnesium contributes to reducing tiredness and fatigue and to normal psychological function.

The mineral also plays a role in the body’s electrolyte balance and is involved in a number of processes that are important for the body’s general wellbeing.

Magnesium is naturally found in many foods, including dark chocolate, legumes, whole grains, nuts and green leafy vegetables.

Sleep problems have today become a widespread health issue, and many people experience challenges at times in finding calm and getting a good night’s sleep.

Therefore, dietary supplements are now available where magnesium is combined with ingredients such as chamomile, lemon balm, L-tryptophan, vitamin B6 and saffron – ingredients that are traditionally associated with relaxation and calm in the body.

An example is Magnesium+300 Sleep, where magnesium bisglycinate – an organic and easily absorbed form of magnesium – is combined with plant extracts and amino acids in one capsule.

The purpose of such combinations is to support the body’s natural functions and contribute to relaxation and a more restful sleep.