A study in Biology 2024 reviewed the evidence in adults with obesity and showed that omega-3 fatty acids and structured exercise are associated with better management of triglycerides, inflammation and insulin sensitivity. This is a narrative review of clinical trials and animal studies focusing on people with excess weight and cardiometabolic risk.
For everyday life this means that combining more movement with a good omega-3 intake can support a more flexible metabolism, with fewer circulating triglycerides and a more efficient insulin response. The benefit is especially relevant for adults with obesity or metabolic syndrome, although the mechanisms described help to understand why omega-3s are a mainstay of a cardiometabolically healthy diet.
Study links omega-3s and exercise to lower triglycerides and inflammation
The authors analysed work where omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid, known as EPA, were supplemented with continuous aerobic or high-intensity intervallic exercise programmes. They observed clear reductions in triglycerides, improvements in lipoprotein profile and a modulation of inflammatory markers such as TNF alpha, interleukin 6 and C-reactive protein.
The effect on body weight was modest, but the metabolic changes were significant, with improved fat distribution, improved mitochondrial function and signs of increased insulin sensitivity. The review also highlights that omega-3s act on gene regulatory pathways such as PPAR and SREBP 1c, which control how the body synthesises and uses fat.
How omega-3s act in everyday metabolic physiology
In simple terms, omega-3s change the quality of circulating and stored fats. By incorporating into cell membranes, especially in liver, muscle and adipose tissue, they make those membranes more flexible and responsive to hormonal signals, including insulin.
They also compete with omega-6s in the production of lipid mediators. Fewer pro-inflammatory omega-6 derivatives and more pro-resolving omega-3 mediators, such as resolvins and protectins, result in a lower inflammatory environment. This is associated with better vascular endothelial function, less oxidative stress and a more stable post-meal metabolic response.
The study also recalls that doses of EPA and DHA in the range of 250 milligrams to 3 grams per day have been linked to improvements in triglycerides and inflammatory markers, although above 3 grams per day increases the likelihood of digestive effects and small changes in coagulation. The key is context-specific use and healthy habits.
Daily habits that support omega-3 action on metabolism
The review stresses that omega-3s are not a substitute for the basic pillars of weight management and cardiometabolic health. They work best when integrated into a routine that combines balanced nutrition, regular movement and good rest.
In practice, this means prioritising small oily fish several times a week, reducing ultra-processed foods high in sugars and trans fats, and organising the day to accumulate at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic exercise or well-timed combinations of continuous exercise and high-intensity interval exercise.
It is also useful to take care of overnight fasting windows, leaving about twelve hours between dinner and breakfast when personal circumstances allow. This pattern helps the body to better manage fats and glucose and aligns with the effects described for omega-3s on inflammation and insulin sensitivity.
How Nutribiolite’s DHA PS, an omega-3 brain and eye supplement, fits into this physiology
Nutribiolite’s DHA PS product is a food supplement based on fish oil rich in DHA, docosahexaenoic acid, combined with phosphatidylserine. The study focuses primarily on EPA and its impact on triglycerides and inflammation, but shares the same physiological focus, the role of marine omega-3 fatty acids in metabolic and cellular health.
DHA is a key structural omega-3 in neuronal membranes and the retina, where it contributes to membrane fluidity and efficient cell-to-cell signalling. Although the focus of Biology’ s work is obesity, the mechanisms it describes, such as PPAR regulation, modulation of inflammatory mediators and enhancement of mitochondrial function, are also relevant to energy-demanding tissues such as the brain.
Phosphatidylserine is a phospholipid naturally present in the membranes of neurons. Its combination with DHA in a single formulation seeks to provide complementary structural building blocks for cell membranes, integrating a high-concentration omega-3 with a phospholipid component involved in communication between neurons.
From this perspective, DHA PS is in the same family of strategies that the study describes for omega-3s, supporting physiological pathways that regulate lipids, inflammation and cellular efficiency, with a focus on brain and visual function. It is intended for adults who already take care of their diet and physical activity and want additional support based on membrane biology and omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 supplement rich in DHA combined with phosphatidylserine, intended for adults who want to take care of brain and visual physiology.
Balancing metabolism and brain with informed daily decisions
In summary, the study in Biology reinforces the idea that marine omega-3s and well-timed exercise form a strong tandem to improve parameters such as triglycerides, low-grade inflammation and insulin sensitivity in adults with obesity. It’s not just about weight on the scale, but about how the cells and tissues that support cardiometabolic health function.
Integrating oily fish, prioritising regular movement and, when it makes sense, considering a supplement like Nutribiolite DHA PS within an already healthy routine, is a way to align daily choices with the physiology that science describes. The focus is on supporting natural processes, not quick shortcuts.
This content is informative and is not a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between EPA and DHA within the omega-3s?
EPA has been studied more in relation to triglycerides and inflammatory markers, while DHA is key in structures such as the brain and retina. Both share metabolic pathways and contribute to improving the overall quality of fats that circulate and integrate into cell membranes.
If I already exercise, does it make sense to take more care with my omega-3 intake?
Yes, the study shows that exercise and omega-3s act in a complementary way on inflammation, triglycerides and insulin sensitivity. A good omega-3 base can support training adaptation and recovery, within a healthy lifestyle.
Nutribiolite DHA PS is for the metabolism or the brain
DHA PS focuses on brain and visual physiology, thanks to the combination of DHA and phosphatidylserine, two structural components of neuronal membranes. It shares with the study the omega-3 axis and the regulation of cell function, but its practical focus is on supporting high-demand tissues such as the brain.
Can I get enough omega-3s from food alone?
It is possible if you eat frequent servings of small oily fish and maintain a balanced diet. However, many people do not achieve these intakes on a consistent basis, so in some cases supplementation is considered as additional support.
How DHA PS fits into a routine for metabolism and mind care
DHA PS can be part of a strategy that combines regular exercise, a diet rich in oily fish, vegetables and pulses, and good sleep hygiene. It provides DHA and phosphatidylserine, which are integrated into neuronal membranes, consistent with the omega-3 and metabolism mechanisms described in the scientific literature.
