Updated: May 2026 · Zuckerschmuck Team · Original post: 10.07.2025
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids and are essential for numerous bodily functions. In scientific discussions, they are currently particularly associated with inflammation-related processes, cognitive development, and metabolism. In this post, we summarize the research findings without making a specific efficacy claim for any particular product.
🩹 At a Glance: Approved EU Health Claims for Omega-3
In short: In the EU, there are specific approved claims for DHA and EPA. Other health claims outside this whitelist are not permitted.
- DHA: "DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function." (with at least 250 mg DHA per day) [4]
- DHA for children: "Maternal intake of DHA contributes to the normal brain and eye development of the foetus and breastfed infants." [4]
- DHA + EPA: "EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart." (with at least 250 mg DHA + EPA per day) [4]
- Not approved: disease-related claims such as "influences diabetes progression," "alleviates diabetic complications," or similar
Other health-related claims for Omega-3 are not permitted in the EU outside Regulation 432/2012 [5].
🧬 What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids, primarily including EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). They are building blocks of cell membranes and are involved in various metabolic processes. The body cannot produce them itself; they must be obtained through diet.
Sources include fatty marine fish, some algae, and certain vegetable oils. Those who eat little fish or follow a plant-based diet can ensure adequate supply through appropriate foods or dietary supplements.
🔬 What studies have investigated Omega-3 supply
In short: Several studies have investigated the connection between omega-3 supply and immune, metabolic, and cognitive parameters. Such studies do not lead to blanket therapy recommendations.
Immune and Inflammatory Parameters
A review described immunomodulatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids in model and clinical studies [1]. Such studies are fundamental research on the substance; they do not provide specific therapy recommendations for people with a particular disease.
Observational Study on Omega-3 Intake in Children at Increased Type 1 Risk
The DAISY study observed a correlation between higher omega-3 intake and a lower probability of islet autoimmunity in a prospective cohort of children with an increased genetic risk for type 1 diabetes [2]. Observational studies show correlations, not cause-and-effect relationships. Specific recommendations for supplementation strategies should be discussed with the diabetologist.
Cognitive Parameters in Children
The DOLAB study investigated the effects of DHA supplementation on reading, memory, and behavioral parameters in children with reading difficulties in a randomized controlled design and reported positive effects [3]. The EU authority EFSA, in its 2009 opinion, approved the claim that "DHA contributes to the normal development of the brain and vision in children" (under the conditions of EU Regulation 432/2012) [4,5].
Endothelial Function in Meta-Analysis
A meta-analysis summarized the effect of omega-3 administration on endothelial parameters in randomized studies [6]. Such data are basic research and, by themselves, do not constitute a therapeutic recommendation for a specific patient group.
🧠 DHA and Cognitive Development in Children
In short: For DHA, there is an EU-approved health claim describing its role in normal brain and vision development.
DHA is a major component of neuronal cell membranes. The EFSA opinion of 2009 [4] and EU Regulation 432/2012 [5] permit the health claim "DHA contributes to the normal development of the brain and eyesight in children" under the following conditions:
- Consumption of at least 100 mg DHA per day
- A note on the packaging stating that DHA intake should be combined with a balanced diet
🛒 Zinzino BalanceOil at Zuckerschmuck
In short: Zinzino BalanceOil is a dietary supplement with omega-3 fatty acids. It is available in several flavors and can also individually determine the omega-6/omega-3 balance via a self-test.
With the Zinzino Balance Test, you can have your omega-6/omega-3 distribution analyzed from a blood drop. You place a drop of blood on the test, register online, and after about 14 days, you receive an anonymous evaluation via email with tips on how to adjust the composition of your blood fats.
More about Zinzino's Balance Concept
Zinzino BalanceOil is available in two varieties:
- Tutti Frutti for Children: no fishy aftertaste, one teaspoon per day, mixable in juice or shake. Zinzino BalanceOil for Children
- Orange Lemon Mint for Adults: Zinzino BalanceOil Orange Lemon Mint
At Zuckerschmuck, we carry Zinzino products in our assortment and ship them without a subscription commitment: Zinzino products at Zuckerschmuck. If you want a cheaper monthly purchasing option, Zinzino directly offers a subscription savings plan.
Note: Zinzino BalanceOil is a dietary supplement and not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet. Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Keep out of reach of small children.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Omega-3
How much omega-3 is recommended daily?
The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends a balanced intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids through regular fish consumption (1 to 2 servings per week) [7]. EU health claims for DHA and EPA require minimum amounts (see spec block). Please discuss personal recommendations with your doctor or nutritional therapist.
Should people with diabetes supplement with omega-3?
There is no general answer. For diabetes, an individual assessment of the overall diet by a diabetologist is advisable. Supplementation may be useful if there is a nutritional gap, but it is not a substitute for established diabetes therapy [8].
Can omega-3 prevent type 1 diabetes?
No. There are observational studies on omega-3 intake and islet autoimmunity in children at increased risk [2], but no valid data that would allow omega-3 to be promoted as a preventive measure against type 1 diabetes. In the EU, such an advertising claim is not permitted.
Can omega-3 support cognitive development in children?
For DHA, there is an EU-approved health claim describing its role in the normal development of the brain and eyesight in children (with at least 100 mg DHA per day) [4,5]. Specifically observed effects depend on individual factors.
What is the Zinzino Balance Test?
The test analyzes the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in the blood from a small blood drop. The evaluation is provided by the manufacturer and can serve as a basis for individual dietary adjustments. The test is not a substitute for medical advice.
Are omega-3 supplements also suitable for children?
There are omega-3 products with special flavor formulations for children. Their suitability and dosage should be discussed with a pediatrician.
📚 Sources
- Calder PC. Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: from molecules to man. Biochem Soc Trans. 2017;45(5):1105–1115. (Verification of the specific 2020 source recommended before going live) Available via PubMed.
- Norris JM, Yin X, Lamb MM, Barriga K, Seifert J, Hoffman M, et al. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake and islet autoimmunity in children at increased risk for type 1 diabetes. JAMA. 2007;298(12):1420–1428. DOI: 10.1001/jama.298.12.1420
- Richardson AJ, Burton JR, Sewell RP, Spreckelsen TF, Montgomery P. Docosahexaenoic acid for reading, cognition and behavior in children aged 7–9 years: a randomized, controlled trial (the DOLAB Study). PLoS ONE. 2012;7(9):e43909. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043909
- EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies. Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and contribution to brain development and visual development. EFSA Journal. 2009;7(9):1007. EFSA Full Text
- Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 establishing a list of permitted health claims made on foods. eur-lex.europa.eu
- Wang Q, Liang X, Wang L, Lu X, Huang J, Cao J, et al. Effect of omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on endothelial function: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Atherosclerosis. 2012;221(2):536–543. (Verification of the specific Rombaldi-2017 source recommended before going live.)
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung (DGE). Empfehlungen zur Fettzufuhr. Bonn: DGE. dge.de
- Deutsche Diabetes Gesellschaft (DDG), AWMF. S3-Leitlinie Therapie des Typ-1-Diabetes. AWMF-Register-Nr. 057-013. 2. Auflage; 2023. awmf.org
Legal Notice and Disclaimer
This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute medical, nutritional, or doctor's advice. Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet. For diabetes or other chronic diseases, supplementation should be discussed with a diabetologist or general practitioner. The links to Zinzino products are marked as advertising with an affiliate connection (partner ID 2020271409). No liability is assumed for the completeness and topicality of the scientific sources.
Best regards,
your Zuckerschmuck team
