General
Q
What are fatty acids?
A
Fatty acids are fat molecules (or lipids) which make up the phospholipid layer of cell membranes. Long-chain fatty acids are essential for the proper functioning of every living cell in the body. The notion that all fats are bad and the trend towards "low fat" diets in fact pose a threat to health, certain fats, particularly polyunsaturates and monounsaturates are an important part of a balanced diet and actually contribute to improved health. The most important fatty acids are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Q
If one is healthy, is there a need to take fatty acids?
A
Fatty acids are crucial for the proper functioning of every living cell in the body. The human brain comprises 60% fat, of which roughly 20% are long-chain fatty acids. Crucial for cellular messaging these fats play an important role in brain function. Sadly the body hasn"t evolved to distinguish between "good" fats (such as EPA - eicosapentaenoic acid - or GLA) and "bad" fats (hydrogenated fats found in margarines and pastries, for example). Gradually these bad fats replace the good fats in the brain, resulting in the hardening of cell membranes and deterioration of cell signalling. This can adversely affect the production of neurotransmitters in the brain, resulting in mood, attentional and behavioural problems in children and adults. All individuals wanting to maintain their health should be consuming fatty acids regularly, whether through diet or taking concentrated fish oil supplements. Q
Are fatty acids beneficial if I do not have a healthy and balanced diet?
A
By supplementing diet with long-chain fatty acids (as contained in Vegepa or OmegaForce) the "blocks" presented by the modern lifestyle and diet are effectively bypassed. This means that the fatty acids can and will be absorbed by the body. A healthy diet helps to boost the utilisation of fatty acids, however. As well as being converted into succeeding fatty acids, EPA and EPO are both converted into eicosanoids, substances such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes which are vital for the regulation of inflammation, pain, fluid balance and blood clotting. Fatty acids are beneficial despite not having a perfectly balanced diet, although benefits will be optimised with sufficient intake of co-factor vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Zinc, Folic acid and so on. For more information about how you can help your body to make best use of fatty acids, please click here. Q
Can omega-3s be obtained as part of the diet?
A
Yes, it is possible to obtain omega-3s through diet. Short-chain omega-3s can be obtained from flaxseed, rapeseed (canola) and walnut oils. The conversion of short-chain fatty acids into long-chain fatty acids is very inefficient, however, so in order to obtain the more important long-chain fatty acids in significant amounts it is slightly more difficult, particularly for vegetarians. EPA (the key omega-3 fatty acid) is found in rich supply in oily species of fish. Eating at least 2 oily portions of fish each week will provide a sufficient amount of omega-3 for maintaining cardiovascular health. The polluted state of our seas makes it dangerous, however, to attempt to obtain large amounts of omega-3 through eating fish. To obtain the amount of EPA necessary for a sustained benefit to both mental and physical health, it is safer to take a purified and concentrated fish oil supplement derived from the flesh of the fish, whereby toxins and heavy metals are removed from the oil. Vegepa and OmegaForce both provide a safe way of obtaining the necessary amounts of EPA in the diet. Q
What is Vegepa?
A
Vegepa is a patented formula of long-chain fatty acids, combining the health-enhancing properties of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) from marine fish oil and 100 mg organic virgin evening primrose oil (EPO). Each capsule provides 280 mg ultra-pure clinical-grade EPA and 100 mg EPO. Vegepa is manufactured under pharmaceutical control and is GMP approved. For information about Vegepa, please click here.
Q
What are the nutritional values per Vegepa Capsule?
A
Energy 4.5 kcal (19 kJ)
Protein Nil
Carbohydrate (as monosaccharide) Nil Q
I"m aware that there are potential concerns about Vitamin A and Vitamin D in fish oils. Does Vegepa contain Vitamin A or Vitamin D?
A
No, Vegepa does not contain either Vitamin A or D. Unlike many ordinary fish oil preparations, Vegepa and OmegaForce contain EPA which is molecularly distilled. Only the EPA is extracted; all other substances are discarded as waste. It is therefore safe to take higher amounts of ultra-pure EPA than less purified oils which often contain high amounts of these Vitamins.
Q
Why does Vegepa contain Vitamin E and how much is in each capsule?
A
Vegepa contains a small amount of Vitamin E as an anti-oxidant to prevent the oils degrading. Each capsule contains 1 mg of Vitamin E which is lower than 10% of the RDA.
Q
Why is the evening primrose oil in Vegepa referred to as "virgin evening primrose oil"?
A
It"s virgin because it is cold-pressed and non-raffinated i.e. unprocessed and unrefined. Therefore the all-important triterpenes remain intact within the oil. In Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, A Natural Way to Treat ME, Professor Puri writes: "virgin (cold-pressed, non-raffinated) evening primrose oil is rich in a group of compounds known as triterpines. In contrast commercial samples of (non-virgin) evening primrose oil only contained traces of triterpenes." Triterpenes are naturally occurring compounds that help the body mop up dangerous "free radicals", that enable our white blood cells to function better, and that help reduce the pain or arthritic joints. Q
What is OmegaForce?
A
OmegaForce is a patented formulation containing omega-3, 6 & 9 long-chain fatty acids for a multitude of health-enhancing properties. This synergistic combination of natural oils includes pure EPA from marine fish oil, organic virgin evening primrose oil, CLA and extra-virgin olive oil. OmegaForce also contains a botanical source of triterpenes for added immune support. Manufactured under pharmaceutical control, OmegaForce is GMP approved. For more information, please click here. Q
How are concentrated fish oil supplements different from standard cod liver oils?
A
Concentrated fish oils are a far purer form of fish oil than many ordinary preparations which derive from the excretory organ of fish (liver oils). By taking EPA which is extracted from fish oil, you are obtaining a higher concentration of omega-3 and consuming far less unnecessary fat. Attempting to obtain high amounts of omega-3 by consuming cod liver oils, you also risk consuming too high an amount of Vitamin A, increasing the risk of Vitamin A toxicity. Q
Why can"t I take vegetarian omega-3s to get the same benefits as fish oils?
A
Vegetarian omega-3s are short-chain fatty acids. Although beneficial to health, these fats do not have the same significant health-enhancing properties as the long-chain fats which are so crucial for neurological function, for example. It is the long-chain fatty acids which are important both structurally and functionally in the brain. While in theory the body has the capability to convert short-chain omega fatty acids into the succeeding long-chain fats this conversion is, in reality, very inefficient. With each conversion, certain enzymes must be present in order for the body to metabolise the fatty acids effectively. The average modern diet creates "blocks" whereby these enzymes are not produced in sufficient amounts to enable short-chain fats to be converted into long-chain fats such as EPA and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). If you are vegetarian you should ensure that you obtain the necessary co-factors to allow the fatty acid conversions to take place naturally in the body and take a good vegetarian source of omega-3 such as flaxseed. For more information about co-factors, click here.
Q
Why doesn"t Igennus produce fish oil supplements in liquid form?
A While we know that it would be easier for some of our customers to take a liquid form of our products, we are concerned about the high rate of oxidation of liquid fish oils which are constantly exposed to the air. Consuming oxidised oil is potentially extremely hazardous to health given the link with free radicals and cell damage. Encapsulation of the fish oils minimises this harmful process and avoids the need to add large quantities of anti-oxidants and additives which degrade the oil.
Health Benefits
Q
What are the neurological benefits of taking fatty acids?
A
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are crucial for maintaining the correct structure of the membrane of every cell in the body, forming part of the phospholipid layer. Phospholipids are responsible for the smooth messaging signals between neurons in the brain. Deficiencies of fatty acids can therefore lead to problems with cell signalling and hence brain function. Given that the brain controls every function in the body via a network of complex electrical circuitry, the efficacy of messaging between cells is vital to health. Impairment of brain activity may occur as a result of a deficiency of fatty acids in the phospholipid layer. Q
Is Vegepa good for chronic fatigue syndrome/M.E.?
A
Intake of EPA-rich supplements, like Vegepa, have been shown to be effective in treating symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in studies carried out by Professor Behan and colleagues at Glasgow University. The recommended dose for adults suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is 2.24 gms of EPA per day plus 800 mgs of virgin evening primrose oil and it has been found to bring benefit even to long-standing sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Q
Is Vegepa good for depression?
A
There is evidence that shows that sufferers of depression can benefit a great deal from taking EPA. A study carried out in Israel, which focussed on 20 patients with major depression, found that 2gms of EPA daily resulted in "highly significant benefits" compared with a placebo (a capsule containing no active ingredients) by the third week. Vegepa contains ultra-pure EPA. Q
Is Vegepa good for ADHD / Dyslexia / Dyspraxia?
A
In a paper published in 2003, entitled Fatty Acids in Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD, and the Autistic Spectrum, Dr Richardson explains that: "Scientific evidence suggests that imbalances or deficiencies of certain highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) may contribute to a range of behavioural and learning difficulties including ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and autistic spectrum disorders. This could help to explain the strong familial associations between these conditions and their common overlap within the same individuals.
"Research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids are more likely to help than omega-6 (although both are important for optimal brain function). Of the omega-3 fatty acids, the latest evidence indicates that it is EPA - not DHA - that is likely to be most beneficial for these purposes."
Vegepa contains ultra-pure EPA.
Q
Is Vegepa good for your joints?
A
In Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, A Natural Way to Treat ME, Professor Puri writes: "Osteoarthritis and some cases of other types of arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis) are helped by taking a combination of EPA and virgin evening primrose oil. The EPA helps restore the functioning of the synovial fluid of the joints, while a particularly important helpful component of virgin evening primrose oil is the family of triterpines (which help relieve the pain associated with arthritis)." A suitable starting dose for arthritis would be between four and eight Vegepa capsules daily, depending on the severity of the joint problems.
Vegepa contains ultra-pure EPA.
Q
Will taking Vegepa help me to sleep better?
A
In Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, A Natural Way to Treat ME, Professor Puri writes: "EPA is converted into natural sleep mediators. After a few days to a few weeks of taking pure EPA (without DHA), even people who do not suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome find that they experience sleep that is much deeper and much more refreshing than they might be used to." Vegepa contains pure EPA (with no DHA). Q
Will taking Vegepa improve my concentration?
A
In Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, A Natural Way to Treat ME, Professor Puri writes: "Whether or not a person is suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome to begin with, they are likely to find that their concentration and general thinking ability is much improved within weeks of starting a supplement containing pure EPA (without DHA) and virgin evening primrose oil."
Vegepa contains pure EPA (with no DHA) and virgin evening primrose oil.
Side Effects
Q
Are there any side effects caused by taking fish oils?
A
Fish oils have many health-enhancing properties, but like any natural foodstuff it is important not to consume excessive amounts - taking purified fish oils will not result in any serious side effects, however. High doses of concentrated fish oil may cause slight stomach upset and speed up bowel movements although this is extremely rare. Should this occur, it is advisable to reduce the daily intake and seek professional medical advice. While EPA is generally extremely beneficial for the cardiovascular system, due to its blood-thinning properties, individuals taking blood-thinning medication such as Warfarin or Heparin injections should not take high strength fish oils. Please note: the above information relates only to Igennus" products. Consuming high doses of ordinary fish oils is not advisable given potential concerns about the levels of heavy metals, PCBs and Vitamin A in less purified products. Q
Is it safe to take EPA while also taking anti-depressants?
A
The omega-3 polyunsaturate EPA is a natural component of food and is safe to be taken in conjunction with anti-depressant medication. Some leading doctors, such as Professor B.K.Puri, use EPA in combination with anti-depressants to increase the speed of recovery.
Nevertheless we would advise that you always consult your GP about taking any supplements alongside anti-depressants. It is important not to stop taking any medication suddenly.
Q
Is it okay to take Vegepa/ OmegaForce with linseed oil, which is also an omega-3 oil?
A
Linseed oil only offers fatty acids at the essential fatty acid (EFA) level - i.e. short-chain fatty acids (LA and ALA). There is no real advantage in taking linseed oil at the same time as EPA and EPO. If there is a block at the delta-6 desaturase level, then it is exceedingly difficult for the body to produce EPA from ALA or to produce DGLA and AA from LA. Even if there is no block at this enzyme level, there is only a small trickle of ALA that ends up being converted into EPA (and thence DHA, if needed). Q
Does Vegepa make you put on weight?
A
Vegepa contains 4.5 calories per capsule, therefore it is extremely unlikely that any individual would gain any weight as a result of taking Vegepa daily. The many benefits of taking a purified fatty acid supplement (which enhance the functioning of all living cells and will in fact regulate body mass) should outweigh any concerns about weight gain. Some studies suggest that taking a fish oil supplement in conjunction with regular exercise actually speeds up weight loss over exerise alone.
In Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, A Natural Way to Treat ME, Professor Puri writes: "You need not worry that taking a supplement such as Vegepa may cause an increase in your body weight. In fact, if anything, if you are overweight to begin with, you may well notice that you start to become slimmer." Q
Can I take Vegepa/ OmegaForce during pregnancy?
A
Women should not take any supplement while pregnant before seeking professional medical advice. In any event, Igennus advises pregnant women to consume no more than 1 Vegepa capsule or 2 OmegaForce capsules daily.
Q
Should I lower my dosage of fish oils before I have an operation?
A
Yes, due to the blood-thinning properties of EPA, one month prior to undergoing an operation it is advisable to stop taking fish oils completely. You can then resume them straight after.
Distribution
Q
Can I buy Igennus" products in the shops?
A
Yes. The Igennus range is available from the The Nutri Centre, 7 Park Cresent, London. Igennus" products are also available from selected branches of Lloyds Pharmacy and, in addition, from independent health shops, chemists and pharmacies. To find out where your local stockist is call the Igennus order line on: 0845 1300 424.
Q
I don"t live in the UK; can Vegepa still be delivered to me?
A
Yes. Postage and packing to Europe costs £3 and postage to the rest of the world costs £5.
Obtaining Vegepa on prescription
Q
Is Vegepa available on prescription?
A
Some GPs have been prescribing Vegepa to their patients but it is at the discretion of your GP to decide. Therefore you need to discuss this with you own doctor.
Dosage and Directions for Use
Q
What dose should I take for general health?
A
Vegepa and OmegaForce both contain high concentrations of fatty acids so it is only necessary to take 2 and 4 capsules respectively each day. For more specific ailments, an adult can take up to 8 Vegepa capsules daily. Children under 12 years of age should take one capsule of Vegepa daily unless advised otherwise by a doctor.
Q
If I want to take 1000mg of EPA daily, how many Vegepa capsules do I need to take?
A
Four capsules per day. Preferably two in the morning and two in the evening with or after food. Q
Should I take Vegepa/ OmegaForce with food?
A
Yes. It is preferable (but not essential) to take Vegepa with or after food. Q
I can"t swallow capsules, can I add Vegepa/ OmegaForce to food?
A
Yes. The capsules can be opened and the contents poured into yoghurt. Due to the possible health concerns about the oxidation of fish oils in liquid form, Igennus" fish oils are produced in capsule form. This avoids having to add large amounts of anti-oxidants and additives to stabilise the oils. Q
How long does Vegepa/ OmegaForce take to work?
A
This depends on the individual. Some people have reported noticing a change within a couple of weeks, for others it can take three months for the effects of Vegepa to become apparent. Q
What"s the best temperature at which to store Vegepa/OmegaForce?
A
Our fatty acid supplements are best stored in a cool and dry place, out of direct sunlight at a temperature between 5C and 21C. | 
