Omega-5 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

Introduction

Omega-5 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are primarily found in pomegranate seed oil (PSO), making it a significant source of these beneficial compounds. Additionally, pomegranate juice and extracts also contain Omega-5 PUFAs, making them essential in the field of sports medicine and dietary supplements.

Research on Pomegranate Seed Oil (PSO)

Studies on PSO, particularly its main component, punicic acid (PA), have been rapidly progressing since 2007, indicating substantial potential in clinical and sports medicine. PA, classified as an Omega-5 PUFA, constitutes 55-82% of the total fatty acid content in PSO, varying depending on the pomegranate variety and origin. Other fatty acids present in pomegranate seed oil include palmitic (4%), oleic (6%), and linoleic (6.5%) acids. PA itself is an isomer of conjugated alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a long-chain PUFA essential for the body’s functioning. PSO also contains gamma-tocopherol, a unique form of vitamin E compared to the more common alpha-tocopherol, and 17-alpha-estradiol, a plant-based estrogen.

Punicic Acid (PA)

PA, also known as trichosanic acid, has a unique structure with two cis-double bonds and one trans-double bond, which play a critical role in understanding its physiological effects. According to W. Elfalleh and colleagues (2011), the well-established antioxidant and anti-lipidemic properties of PSO position it as a key natural protector for various medical applications. The highest-quality and standardized PSO product, containing a high percentage of PA, is obtained through cold pressing from by-products of pomegranate juice production, specifically extracted from pomegranate pulp (de Melo I.L.P. et al., 2014, 2016). PA content in PSO can be enriched up to 80%.

Experimental and Clinical Studies

Studies on pomegranate seed oil and punicic acid have revealed several important findings:

1. Essential Fatty Acid: PA is considered an essential fatty acid, meaning it is not synthesized by the body. In the absence of pathological or stress factors, PA does not significantly influence metabolism (Yuan G.F. et al., 2009, 2014). Experimental studies have shown that dietary supplementation with omega-5 PUFAs can lead to a dose- and time-dependent reduction in visceral fat mass, especially in the abdominal cavity (Koba K. et al., 2007). Simultaneously, lipid profiles improved, with decreased levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides in the liver.
2. Improved Fat Tolerance: PA has been found to improve the body’s tolerance to atherogenic (harmful) fatty acids, enhancing the handling of lipid loads (Yang L. et al., 2005). In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, individuals with elevated blood triglyceride levels experienced significant reductions in triglycerides following omega-5 PUFA supplementation (Mirmiran P. et al., 2010). Research by R. Hontecillas and colleagues (2009) demonstrated that a diet enriched with PA (62 mg per day) accelerated glucose metabolism and normalized blood glucose levels in experimental obesity conditions. B.K. McFarlin and colleagues (2009) found that omega-5 PUFAs increased tissue sensitivity to insulin and reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: PA has also shown anti-inflammatory properties in experiments (Caligiani A. et al., 2010).

However, direct data on the combined effects of PA and physical exercise on body composition, blood biochemistry, and other indicators of the functional state of individuals engaged in sports are currently lacking.

This product is a highly safe dietary supplement that can normalize the digestive process, accelerate the absorption of essential nutrients, and regulate lipid metabolism.

Innovative Developments

Omega Peptide IPH 5 is a peptide complex with the primary component being the active peptide IPH AG. It works in conjunction with omega-5 polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from high-quality pomegranate seed oil varieties. IPH AG plays a crucial role in enhancing the transport systems of enterocytes, significantly improving the absorption of all nutrients, including omega-5 PUFAs.