Research
Micronutrients & recovery
Polyphenols found in the Mediterranean diet (e.g., from red wine and grapes) increase the endogenous synthesis of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, while high omega-6 intake inhibits this synthesis.
To maximize the benefits of plant-based omega-3s (like flaxseed), consume them with polyphenol-rich foods like olive oil, red wine, or grapes. Avoid excessive omega-6 oils, which block the conversion of plant omega-3s into their more potent forms.
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
certain (Mediterranean) polyphenols significantly increase the endogenous synthesis of omega-3 whereas high intake of omega-6 decreases it.
Why this rating
Supported by experimental data in rats and some human studies cited.
Source
New insights into the health effects of dietary saturated and omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids
Michel de Lorgeril et al. · BMC Medicine · 2012
DOI 10.1186/1741-7015-10-50
narrative_reviewCited 188×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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