Moncton research seeks plant source for omega-3 fatty acids

A study is underway at the University of Moncton which aims to determine if a plant oil can deliver high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, comparable to those found in fish oil.

The research is important because of the role omega-3s play in our health, and the sustainability of our current supply.

The study began about 10 years ago by professor Marc Surette and involved the screening of hundreds of plants containing omega-3s. Omega-3s undergo a conversion process in the body to produce many health benefits including controlling inflammation. Traditionally, fish oils have been the chief source of omega-3s, but due to dwindling fish stocks, researchers have been working to find a more sustainable source. Surette and his team have identified the seed of a plant known as ahiflower or corn gromwell as having an omega-3 strain similar to that found in fish oil which can be converted more efficiently than flaxseed oil, a common replacement.

Researcher Natalie Lefort has been part of the team for two years. She says the potential benefits for health and environment are enormous.

"If we realized the tons of fish that are swept away from our oceans every year simply to extract their oil and bottle it and add it to animal feed as well, it would probably shock most of us," she said. "The premise behind the research is to find a more sustainable source."

Lefort began the clinical trial a month ago and trial subjects will consume the ahiflower oil over six weeks. They give periodic blood samples and the data is then collected for further study. The subjects cannot eat any fish during this time. Lefort says geography and the calendar worked together to created a unique problem in the selection process.

"We probably refuse one out of every three individuals who approach us … the first study was in the summer and that was more of a challenge to request our participants to refrain from eating their weekly lobster," she laughed.

Health experts are aware of the study and are excited to see the results.

Peter Ford is a Moncton pharmacist and says the health of people everywhere will benefit if the study proves successful.

"There's no prescription drug I can think of that does as much to your body as an omega-3 oil does."

He also recognizes the importance of this type of research being performed in our region.

"It's a huge step forward and I'm proud it's being done here in the maritimes, specifically at the University of Moncton."

Lefort says they are still looking for participants and expect the results next summer.