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Vegetarian source of omega-3 DHA

A new vegetarian source of omega-3 DHA enables Australian consumers to readily obtain their recommended daily intake through select yoghurts, juices and milk, presenting an alternative to marine fish oils.

life’sDHA is a natural, sustainable source of omega-3, made from microalgae that is free of the allergens and contaminants associated with fish. Fish are often thought to be the only source of omega-3 DHA. However, life’sDHA offers a trusted, non-fish form of DHA. Fish are good sources of DHA because of the DHA-rich microalgae in their food chain; life’sDHA is derived from microalgae using a sustainable source that does not deplete ocean resources.

life’sDHA can now be found in food and beverage products available in local supermarkets and Boost Juice bars around Australia. This plant source of DHA has not been genetically modified and, as well as being suitable for vegetarians, is both Kosher and Halal.

Omega-3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), a long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid, serves as a primary building block for the brain and the eyes and supports brain, eye and cardiovascular health throughout life. DHA represents over 90% of all omega-3 fatty acids in the brain and in the retina of the eye. It is a key component of heart tissue and one of the omega-3 fats recommended by the National Heart Foundation for good heart health.

“The body’s own production of DHA is limited,” said Dietitians Association of Australia spokesperson and leading accredited practicing dietitian, Melanie McGrice.

“The average Australian is consuming less than half of the optimal recommended intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish or fish oils is one way to get more DHA in the diet. Now life’sDHA? offers a natural alternative that is free of oceanic contaminants.”

An adequate intake of omega-3 DHA is particularly important for children. A report released in September 2007 by the Australian Omega-3 Centre, produced by an international team of nutrition scientists and health experts, recommends an intake of at least 500mg of long chain omega-3 fatty acids daily for children aged 14 years and over. Most children do not consume enough fish and estimates of their average omega-3 DHA intakes are between 24 and 77 mg/day — with many children consuming much less.

Deakin University’s Professor of Human Nutrition and international omega-3 expert, Andrew Sinclair, said that “there is a large and growing body of scientific evidence to suggest that people of all ages, from infants to aging adults, benefit from an adequate supply of DHA in their diets.

“Higher levels of DHA consumption are associated with higher memory and cognitive function in children. Parents need to find ways to help their children consume more essential omega-3 nutrients.”

Produced by US company Martek Biosciences Corporation life’sDHA is now available in Australia in a number of nationally recognised food and beverage products.

For further information contact:

Helen McDonald

hmcdonald@jmm.com.au

www.lifesdha.com/au

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