EPA and DHA
What are Essential Fatty Acids?
The two key fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). EPA and DHA are
essential fatty acids, essential meaning they can't be
produced by the body in sufficient quantities and, therefore, must be supplied
through our diet.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) is a long-chain
omega-3 fatty acid that inhibits
the formation of arachidonic acid (AA). Eicosapentaenoic
acid (more commonly known as EPA; C20H30O2, all-cis-fatty
acid 20:5 ω-3, trival name timnodonic acid) is a
polyunsaturated fatty acid that acts as a precursor for
prostaglandin-3, which inhibits platelet aggregation)
and thromboxane-3 groups. It is found in fish oils of
cod liver, herring, mackerel, salmon, menhaden and
sardine. It is also found in human breast milk.
Arachidonic Acid (AA) is a long-chain omega-6
fatty acid that is the
immediate precursor to inflammation. Arachidonic acid is
present in the membranes of the body's cells, and is
highly enriched in the brain. It is a precursor in the
production of eicosanoids: the prostaglandins,
thromboxanes, prostacyclin and the leukotrienes.
Arachidonic acid is also involved in cellular signaling
as a second messenger.
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) a long-chain omega-3
fatty acid is critical for
brain function. Docosahexaenoic acid (commonly known as
DHA; 22:6 omega-3, all-cis-docosa 4,7,10,13,16,19
hexaenoic acid, trivial name clupanodonic acid) is an
omega-3 essential fatty acid. It is most often found in
fish oil. Most of the DHA in fish and other more complex
organisms originates in microalgae of the genus
Schizochytrium, and concentrates in organisms as it
moves up the food chain. Most animals make very little
DHA metabolically, however small amounts are
manufactured internally through the consumption of α-linolenic
acid, an omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed as well as
many other seeds and nuts.
DHA is a major fatty acid in sperm and brain
phospholipids, especially in the retina. Dietary DHA can
reduce the level of blood triglycerides in humans, which
may reduce the risk of heart disease. Low levels of DHA
have been associated with ADHD, Alzheimer's disease, and
depression, among other diseases, and there is mounting
evidence that DHA supplementation may be effective in
combating such diseases*.
The richest natural source of EPA and DHA are fish oils,
but their concentrations
are relatively low, requiring you to eat prodigious
amounts of fish to gain the
levels of EPA and DHA necessary to reduce silent
inflammation. Due to
contamination, eating fish can give rise to increased
intake of known carcinogens or
neurotoxins.
* These statements have not been evaluated by the
Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended
to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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