![]() The current American diet has changed over time to be high in SFA and low in omega-3 fatty acids ( 12). ( 11) found an ALA conversion of only 0.3% for EPA and <0.01% for DHA. ![]() ( 10) found an ALA conversion of ∼7% for EPA, but only 0.013% for DHA Hussein et al. For example, 1 study suggested that only ∼2 to 10% of ALA is converted to EPA or DHA ( 9), and other studies found even less: Goyens et al. Although it is possible for the body to convert ALA to EPA and DHA by enlongase and desaturase enzymes, research suggests that only a small amount can be synthesized in the body from this process ( 8). A shorter chain omega-3 fatty acid, α-linolenic acid (ALA), 6 is a prominent component of our diet as it is found in many land plants that are commonly eaten, but it does not provide the health benefits seen with EPA and DHA. It can be challenging to get the appropriate intake of EPA and DHA through diet alone, even though EPA and DHA are produced by water plants such as algae and are prevalent in marine animals. EPA and DHA are also the precursors of several metabolites that are potent lipid mediators, considered by many investigators to be beneficial in the prevention or treatment of several diseases ( 7). DHA is a key component of all cell membranes and is found in abundance in the brain and retina ( 6). EPA and DHA are essential for proper fetal development and healthy aging ( 5). They are incorporated in many parts of the body including cell membranes ( 2) and play a role in antiinflammatory processes and in the viscosity of cell membranes ( 3, 4). Omega-3 long-chain PUFA, including EPA and DHA, are dietary fats with an array of health benefits ( 1).
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