Fish oil is a dietary supplement primarily made from the fats of small fish like mackerel, sardines, herring, etc. Fish oil contains beneficial fatty acids, EPA and DHA, which have numerous scientifically proven and widely published health benefits. It is commonly used to increase Omega-3 intake and to maintain healthy vision, heart, and brain function.
Today, there are many types of fish oil available on the market. However, they are not all the same.
Due to their rTG form, UnoCardio is up to 70% more easily absorbed than brands like Lovaza, Teva Omega-3, Omacor, and others.
Since Jo Wyckmans founded Nutrogenics (which manufactures and distributes the WHC Labs brand), her passion has always been to provide the "best of the best" omega 3 products on the market. the products contain large amounts of essential fatty acids DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).
The health benefits of these essential fatty acids have been scientifically proven in many studies.
WHC UnoCardio® food supplements contain 90-95% omega 3, thus providing the necessary amount of omega 3 in just one gel capsule - this corresponds to the amount available from 3-10 regular fish oil gel capsules.
Unlike most concentrated fish oils on the market, which are in the ethyl ester (synthetic fat) form, all UnoCardio® blends are manufactured using the true r-triglyceride (rTG) form. Studies have shown that the bioavailability of the r-triglyceride form, i.e. the rate of absorption of fatty acids in the body, is significant - up to 70% higher than that of ethyl esters.
So it's no surprise that UnoCardio® 1000 has been repeatedly ranked number one in terms of purity and quality by independent testing organizations in the United States (Labdoor.com, IFOS).
EPA AND DHA: THE MOST IMPORTANT OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS
The most vital Omega-3 fatty acids are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Our body synthesizes EPA and DHA in very insufficient amounts, which is why it is necessary to obtain them from food or Omega-3 supplements. Both EPA and DHA play a significant role in maintaining overall health and well-being. For proper functioning, the body typically requires 500-1000 mg of EPA and DHA per day, but the recommended intake level of EPA+DHA can vary from 250 mg to 3 g.
DHA is one of the most important fatty acids in the brain and retina of the eye, which explains why DHA helps maintain cognitive function and vision when consumed at least 250 mg per day. DHA is a key fatty acid, serving as a building block for the membranes of brain cells and retinal tissues. It can be compared to building a house: if you think of pouring concrete for the foundation, DHA is like the essential material that concrete represents. The structure of the house can have different qualities depending on the materials used in the walls. If the concrete is not strong enough, it affects all components of the house (walls, windows, electrical systems, plumbing). Similarly, the fatty acids we consume determine how strong or weak the cell membranes in your brain and retina are, and consequently, how well or poorly they function.
In some cases, DHA and EPA have combined effects. EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function (at least 250 mg per day), the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels (2 g/day), and the maintenance of normal blood pressure (3 g/day). At higher intake levels, it is important not to exceed a total of 5 g of EPA and DHA per day.
Thus, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) found in Omega-3 are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids that people use to maintain a healthy body and mind. Since humans can produce only very small amounts of EPA and DHA, they must obtain these fatty acids through their diet or Omega-3 supplements. These beneficial fatty acids are naturally found in oily fish such as mackerel, sardines, herring, etc. By regularly consuming sufficient amounts of oily fish or taking 1000 mg of Omega-3 supplements daily (such as UnoCardio® by WHCLabs), we can achieve a balanced Omega-3 Index (8% or more Omega-3 in the red blood cells of the body) and benefit from the health advantages these nutrients provide.
More information on the page www.Omega-3-index.com
The American Heart Association recommends a daily intake of 2–4 grams of EPA+DHA to maintain normal triglyceride (fat) levels in the blood. This recommendation is now followed by health authorities in many other countries. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has reached a similar conclusion, stating that 2 grams of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA per day help maintain normal blood triglyceride levels. This amount of EPA and DHA is easily obtained by taking two capsules of WHC Labs Unocardio products, as one capsule contains 1 gram of EPA+DHA.
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND that this recommendation does not mean taking 1–2 grams of fish oil per day. Most fish oils contain only about 30% EPA and DHA, with the rest being unnecessary or even harmful. Therefore, it is essential to check the product label to see how much EPA and DHA are in the product, as this largely determines its actual quality and allows us to calculate the real cost per gram of EPA+DHA.
The European Commission has approved 9 health claims or benefits that can officially be used for omega-3 products containing EPA and DHA, and is conducting research to verify additional beneficial effects:
When hearing the word "fish oil", many immediately think of the spoonful of cod liver oil reluctantly swallowed during childhood. However, the fish oil we are discussing here differs significantly from the cod liver oil used in the past or still sold today. In fact, consuming large amounts of cod liver oil to obtain omega-3 fatty acids can be harmful. Many cod liver oils still contain excessive amounts of vitamin A, and overconsumption of this vitamin may increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Cod liver oil contains approximately 190 mg of EPA+DHA per gram of oil, or 19%. Postmenopausal women often need 1 gram of EPA daily. Attempting to achieve this with cod liver oil poses a significant risk of consuming too much vitamin A. Your vitamin A levels could rise to such an extent that it increases the risk of osteoporosis.
Pregnant women should definitely avoid consuming cod liver oil due to its high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D, which, in excessive amounts, can be harmful to the fetus.
Children are also not recommended to consume cod liver oil because of its vitamin A content. To obtain 500 mg of EPA from cod liver oil, it would have to be consumed in amounts where the vitamin A levels become dangerously high. Furthermore, EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) has determined that Europeans already get sufficient vitamin A from their diet, so additional supplementation or food fortification is unnecessary.
In summary: Avoid cod liver oil!
Krill oil is a dietary supplement derived from small marine creatures called krill, or euphausiids, found in the Arctic and Antarctic oceans. Like fish oil, krill oil contains omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, but in smaller amounts. The omega-3 fatty acids in krill oil are present in two forms: free fatty acids and phospholipid-bound forms.
Although krill oil contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, it alone is insufficient to meet the body’s omega-3 needs. Even with a daily intake of 3 to 5 krill oil capsules, omega-3 level tests may still show low EPA and DHA values. As a result, consumers may feel disappointed upon seeing the results of their omega-3 index tests.
Therefore, in addition to krill oil, it is necessary to also take high-concentration fish oil supplements. For this reason, WHC Labs has decided to focus on the highest-quality, purest, and most concentrated omega-3 products on the market to ensure their customers receive the best value and quality.
Krill oil contains only 12% omega-3 fatty acids, which is 15 times less than WHC products, including UnoCardio® fish oil. Using krill oil daily can become expensive, as achieving 1,000 mg of EPA+DHA requires 5 to 6 capsules per day. Krill oil marketers claim that its bioavailability is superior to fish oil due to the presence of phospholipids. However, this may not be entirely accurate, as good absorption has been linked to the free fatty acids found in krill oil. Unfortunately, these free fatty acids are present in only small amounts, accounting for just 20 to 22% of all fatty acids in krill oil. Anyone can calculate whether the significant price difference is justified, as reaching the daily goal of 1 g of EPA/DHA requires at least 5 to 6 krill oil capsules.
Since fish contain mercury and other heavy metals and environmental toxins (especially in the Baltic Sea), it is recommended to limit fish consumption. Even without limiting fish consumption, the average Western person does not consume enough omega-3 to benefit their health. The deficiency of omega-3 fats in the Western diet is due to two main factors:
Firstly, people consume little fatty fish, despite scientists and health authorities recommending eating at least two servings of fatty fish per week (e.g., 2 x 100g of anchovies, herring, or wild salmon, which provide 2,000 mg of EPA & DHA)—equivalent to two UnoCardio® soft capsules.
Secondly, people often choose the "wrong" type of fish, such as white fish or fish sticks, which contain very little or no omega-3 fatty acids.
As a result, most Western people do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids from their diet and need supplements to achieve healthy omega-3 levels.
Reference: The Nutritional-Toxicological Conflict Associated with Seafood Consumption / Covaci A, Voorspoels S, Wyckmans J, Gelbin A, Neels H. Anthropogenic and Natural Organohalogenated Compounds in Fish Oil Supplements from Different Countries. Organohalogen Compounds 2006; 68: 5
Here are some tips on how to better understand the composition of supplements on your own:
You may discover that achieving the recommended daily intake of 1 gram of EPA and DHA fatty acids requires consuming an unexpectedly large number of capsules of that product. This could mean that the product packaging runs out much faster than expected if you follow the recommended dosage.
Products that initially seem affordable may, in the long run, turn out to be more expensive if they require consuming two, four, or more capsules per day. Additionally, it’s important to note that lower-concentration capsules and liquid products in bottles may contain unwanted and potentially harmful substances, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and heavy metals.
It has become increasingly clear that a fish oil supplement containing EPA and DHA fatty acids in the form of restructured triglycerides (r-triglyceride = rTG = 'restructured' TG) provides maximum and faster absorption in the body compared to ethyl esters, and probably also compared to regular triglycerides and free fatty acids. For optimal absorption, it is recommended to take a fish oil supplement with a high-fat meal (eg with your main meal made with healthy fats such as olive or flaxseed oil, ghee, etc.).
The amount and concentration of EPA and DHA in the capsule determines how many capsules of EPA and DHA (which are important components of Omega 3) you need to take per day. Some fish oil manufacturers recommend one serving per day, but often this means 2-5 capsules to achieve the required amount of EPA or DHA. It is best to take one UnoCardio® 1000 capsule per day, which contains 1g of EPA+DHA.
People who need help in maintaining normal blood triglyceride levels are recommended to consume 2 UnoCardio® 1000 or Unocardio X2 capsules per day, which provide 2.4 g of Omega 3 or 2 g of EPA+DHA.
To maintain normal blood pressure, a daily intake of 3 g of EPA+DHA or 3 capsules of Unocardio 1000 or Unocardio X2 is recommended
For a rapid increase in Omega 3 levels, take 2 capsules daily for six weeks to three months. This time is necessary to see results and assess improvement. If you want to keep your Omega 3 levels at a healthy level, one capsule a day is enough, preferably with a few meals. It is best to take Omega 3 supplements with your main meal of the day or with your heaviest meal. The absorption of Omega 3 is more effective if it is consumed with other fats, such as natural yogurt or foods made with olive oil.
UnoCardio® 1000 should be used continuously for at least three months. Already after six weeks of daily use of UnoCardio®, it is possible to measure the improvement of the Omega 3 index, but the full effect is manifested in three to four months. It is associated with the renewal of red blood cells in about 4 months. It is important to understand that Omega 3 supplements are helpful in maintaining good health, but they are not a substitute for a varied diet or a healthy lifestyle.
Usually, the use of fish oil with other drugs does not cause any problems. However, when using Omega 3 together with anticoagulants or blood thinners or other prescription drugs, as well as before major surgery, it is advisable to consult a medical specialist. UnoCardio® or other fish oils can be safely used with cardio-aspirin, alpha blockers, ACE inhibitors, fibrates, angiotensin antagonists, diuretics and statins.
Is it possible to take too much UnoCardio EPA/DHA?
As for excessive consumption of UnoCardio EPA/DHA, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has found that long-term consumption of up to 5 grams of EPA+DHA per day is safe for adults. This amount does not significantly increase the risk of spontaneous bleeding or bleeding complications, even when used with low doses of acetylsalicylic acid or anticoagulants.
How many capsules are in one pack of UnoCardio® 1000, how long does one pack last?
Each package of UnoCardio® 1000 contains 60 capsules, each containing 1200 mg of Omega 3, 645 mg of EPA and 400 mg of DHA. Due to the exceptional Omega 3 concentration, purity and natural form of triglycerides, just one capsule per day is enough to keep the Omega 3 index above 8% and achieve the proven health benefits of EPA and DHA. This means that each pack will last up to two months. If you do not consume fish often, we recommend starting with two capsules per day for the first two to three months, then moving to one capsule per day. After just a few weeks, your Omega 3 index will reach a healthy level of over 8%.
Store the product in a cool (up to 25°C) and dry environment, avoiding direct sunlight.
Do not freeze. Keep the product out of the reach of small children. Each gel capsule is individually sealed in an oxygen-proof blister pack to ensure longer shelf life and freshness.
WHC Labs only manufactures fish oils and products from non-endangered species that have been purified in an environmentally friendly manner.
We prefer smaller fish species (mackerel, anchovies, herring, sardines). Due to their short life cycle, these fish reproduce faster (more economically) and consume less heavy metals and PCBs throughout their life (safer). Tuna or salmon, on the other hand, is an endangered species that also contains significant amounts of mercury and PCBs due to its longer life cycle.
Our new product Unocardio Vegan is 100% vegan, the oil in it is made from microalgae. It is a vegan omega 3 product with the highest concentration of EPA and DHA in the world and contains 1000 mg of omega-3 seaweed in one capsule, of which 265 mg EPA and 465 mg DHA!
Our other gel capsules also do not contain animal gelatin, which is why our fish oils are suitable for vegetarians.
Vegans who want to get the recommended amounts of EPA and DHA can also consider using seaweed and organic flaxseed oil, which are good plant-based sources.
The challenge with most other algae-derived EPA and DHA is the low concentration of Omega 3 in these products, which requires a higher intake to reach the 250 mg EPA+DHA daily intake recommended by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
If you aim for a daily intake of 1000 mg of EPA+DHA, algae-based products turn out to be significantly more expensive for this amount. Algae oil can be consumed in combination with flaxseed, perilla or chia oils. It is important to realize that the conversion process from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) to EPA and DHA in our body is very limited, being only 0.2-8%.
UnoCardio X2 is recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. If a pregnant or breastfeeding woman consumes an additional 200 mg of DHA daily, alongside the regular 250 mg of EPA+DHA, DHA contributes to the normal development of the eyes and brain of the fetus or infant*. DHA is an Omega-3 fatty acid that is transferred to the child during pregnancy and later through breast milk. UnoCardio X2® is the purest and safest fish oil, ensuring maximum safety for the child. Health researchers and gynecologists recommend that pregnant women consume at least 200 mg of DHA daily.
How DHA Benefits the Baby:
Why Are EPA and DHA So Important for Children?
Studies have shown that an increasing number of "typical" behavioral issues may be caused by inadequate nutrition during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and the early months of life.
How to Ensure Your Child Gets Enough EPA and DHA:
DHA deficiency particularly affects babies who are not breastfed, as most formula products lack sufficient DHA for normal visual development. Additionally, DHA is crucial for brain development in fetuses and young children, as lipid-rich membranes grow very rapidly during this stage of life. For this reason, breastfeeding is highly recommended (assuming the mother consumes enough DHA). Most young children suffer from Omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies. Therefore, a combination of EPA and DHA is vital starting from the age of 3.
What Happens If the Mother Doesn't Consume Enough DHA?
If women don't consume enough Omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy, the baby will draw these essential nutrients directly from the mother's brain. Breastfeeding women transfer many of their important fatty acids to their children, often causing a significant DHA deficiency. Recent lab studies have found that new mothers have only half the normal amount of Omega-3 fatty acids in their blood. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that new mothers consume at least 200 mg of DHA daily (in addition to the generally recommended 250 mg of EPA+DHA), ensuring adequate DHA for both their baby and themselves. In total, this amounts to at least 450 mg of DHA daily.
How to Ensure Your Unborn or Newborn Baby Gets Enough DHA:
The only way to ensure your unborn or newborn baby gets enough DHA is by consuming sufficient DHA yourself. DHA is transferred to the baby through the placenta during pregnancy and through breast milk postpartum.
"A HIGH OMEGA-3 INDEX REDUCES THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE AND HELPS MAINTAIN BRAIN HEALTH. YOU SHOULD KNOW YOUR OMEGA INDEX."
Prof. Dr. Clemens von Schacky, MD (Professor of Cardiology at the University of Munich)
The HS-Omega-3 Index test is easily accessible to you with just a single drop of blood taken from your fingertip, and it only needs to be used once. This test includes a test strip that allows you to measure your Omega-3 Index as well as your Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio. Additionally, it provides information on 26 other fatty acids present in your body.
How Does the Omega-3 Index Differ from Other Fatty Acid Profile Tests?
Our efficient system allows us to pass on savings to you, offering a high-quality test at an affordable price. The Omega-3 Index test provides an unbiased overview of your Omega-3 intake and risk markers for heart disease. Other fatty acid tests do not use the same analysis method and cannot be compared to the Omega-3 Index.
For instance, your EPA+DHA levels might be 6.7% at Lab A and 5.2% at Lab B. Which is "correct"?
The unique HS-Omega-3 Index method we use is backed by more scientific research than any other test on the market, and we continue to conduct and publish new studies.
Order your Omega-3 Index testing kit here.
