Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 essential fatty acid. It is an important fatty acid in the maintenance of cardiovascular health and the regulation of inflammation. EPA is a precursor to a series of chemicals whose job it is to regulate the inflammatory effects of arachidonic acid.
Omega 3 EPA & Arachidonic Acid
As mentioned, EPA is a precursor to a series of chemicals whose job it is to regulate the inflammatory effects of arachidonic acid. Too much arachidonic acid leads to pain and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis. Arachidonic acid also causes inflammation in arteries and leads to the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Deficiency of EPA can result in cardiac arrhythmias, high cholesterol and excessive aging. EPA has been used to treat heart disease, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
Increasing Your Intake of EPA
Through Diet
EPA can be taken in through the diet by eating fish or fish oil. The body can also convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), from vegetable sources like flaxseeds, into EPA. However, the standard North American diet is deficient in essential fatty acids, especially omega 3s and very few individuals have enough excess ALA to meet the body’s need for EPA.
Omega 3 EPA Supplements
Supplemental EPA is usually made from tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel or sardines. These fish contain more omega-3-rich fat than other fish species. Cod liver and halibut liver oils also contain some omega 3s but are primarily used for their vitamin A and D content. Some newer fish liver oils have been fortified with EPA and may be an economical choice for those individuals taking both EPA and liver oils.
EPA supplements are found as liquid oil (processed to remove the fishy taste), soft gel chewables (flavoured) and standard soft gel capsules. Fish liver oil supplements should be used cautiously in children, and pregnant and nursing women because of the toxicity of fat-soluble vitamins.
Key Shopping Tips When Buying EPA Supplements
Ensure your fish oil supplement is not processed with heat because it damages the acids and creates free radicals. It is important to purchase a good quality EPA supplement that has been tested for contaminants. Refrigerate all liquid EPA supplements and keep capsules away from heat to increase shelf life. Using liquid EPA is more cost-effective than capsules because numerous capsules must be taken to make an equivalent amount of liquid oil.
