Heart Health
Clinical studies on Omega-3 EPA and DHA have demonstrated a significant number of heart health benefits. Studies have shown that multiple risk factors for heart disease appear to be reduced by increasing one’s intake of oily fish or by consuming Omega-3
EPA and DHA supplements. Clinical evidence has shown that Omega-3 can increase levels of “good” HDL cholesterol, as well as lowering triglycerides by 15% to 30%.
Inflammation
It is widely known that Omega-3 EPA and DHA provide an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Research has also discovered that EPA and DHA are precursors to a separate class of bioactive lipids called specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs). These molecules actively turn off the inflammatory response. Clinical studies have demonstrated that Omega-3 EPA and DHA supplementation increase the systemic levels of SPMs and reduce the risk of inflammatory disease.
Bone Health
Research has shown that diets high in Omega-3 EPA and DHA may be beneficial to bone health, this has mainly been associated with their anti-inflammatory effect, their effect on bone formation, bone resorption, and on serum calcium. As we get older our bones get more fragile due to increased activation of the inflammatory signalling pathways.
Omega-3 EPA and DHA and lipid mediators derived from EPA and DHA have important physiological roles including bone metabolism. Studies have shown that supplementation with EPA and DHA increase bone mineral density (BMD), lower risk of hip fractures, and have a positive association with bone turnover markers in humans.
Joint Health
Recent scientific reviews suggest that Omega-3 EPA and DHA supplementation has beneficial effect in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) patients and show some promise in other joint disorders with an inflammatory component. RA is characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, and symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, as well as reduced mobility of the joints. To alleviate the discomfort of RA, prescription medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are generally prescribed. Several clinical trials using Omega-3 EPA and DHA on patients with RA have shown a decrease in morning stiffness, less joint pain and a decrease in the use of NSAIDS. There are some indications also that omega-3 EPA and DHA supplementation added to other therapy for RA is more beneficial for the patient.
Eye Health
Studies have shown that daily use of Omega-3 DHA can help reduce age related eye damage. Omega-3 EPA and DHA may help decrease the risk of high eye pressure and glaucoma. A lack of Omega-3 DHA can impair vision development especially in growing children
Macular Degeneration
With more than 25 million people affected worldwide, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) ranks as the third leading cause of blindness after cataracts and glaucoma. In the Western world it is the number one leading cause of blindness for people over 55 and that number is expected to triple by 2025. There is growing evidence suggesting that Omega-3 DHA and EPA can protect against the development and progression of AMD. Studies have shown that people who consume the recommended intake of fish or having higher blood levels of Omega-3, are up to 50% less likely to experience eye damage as a result of advanced macular degeneration
Glaucoma
Omega-3 DHA and EPA may help with proper drainage of intraocular fluid from the eye, decreasing the risk of high eye pressure and glaucoma. DHA may also protect the blood vessels of the eye by inhibiting the development of blood clots and plaque, allowing regular levels of oxygen to be supplied to the retina.
Brain Health
Studies have shown that Omega-3 DHA may have a positive effect on learning and behavioural disorders. A diet low in Omega-3 DHA can have a negative effect on neurocognitive development, including learning and memory.
