Omega 3's part 2 of 2

Articles by Dr. Erdman are for informational purposes, and are not to be taken as specific medical advice.

In the last article we introduced the fact that there is a difference in the origin of omega-3 fats, being either plant derived or animal derived. The animal derived omega-3 fats also have differences in their origin, either being fish based or krill based.

Here, we will further explain the differences, starting with animal versus plant derived omega-3 fats.

Marine animal based fats are sourced from fatty fish such as salmon, anchovies, sardines, herring, fish and krill. DHA is primarily a long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) with 22 carbons, and EPA is a PUFA of 20 carbons. Since they are long chain fatty acids, they are more readily available to your body.

The biological effects of EPA/DHA are mostly anti-inflammatory and for communication within cells and between cells. The last article listed many more effects. As much as 30% of the fatty mass of the prefrontal cortex of the brain is DHA and 90% of the omega-3 fat found in the brain is DHA. The development of the fetal brain is entirely dependent on the availability of DHA. Pre-pregnancy should include super doses of EPA/DHA for proper brain development.

Omega 3's part 1 of 2

Articles by Dr. Erdman are for informational purposes, and are not to be taken as specific medical advice.

I’ve written several times over the years on the benefits of Omega-3 fats, EPA and DHA. They are essential to your overall health and to your heart health particularly.

There are many studies confirming that regular consumption of fish and other omega-3 rich foods may lower your risk of a heart attack by about ten percent. One Italian study showed a 50% reduction in sudden cardiac death.

Omega-3 fats benefit your cardiovascular health in multiple ways. They lower blood pressure and triglyceride concentrations. They improve your ability to grow new blood vessels, which helps in areas that may be damaged.