DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID (DHA) AND CHRONIC DISEASES

DHA and cardiovascular effects :

In 3 large controlled trials of 32,000 participants randomized to receive omega-3 fatty acid supplements containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) , results showed reductions in cardiovascular events of 19% to 45%. These findings suggest that intake of omega-3 fatty acids, whether from dietary sources or fish oil supplements, should be increased, especially in those with or at risk for coronary artery disease (6). The American Heart Association (AHA) has endorsed the use of omega-3 fatty acids for secondary prevention of cardiovascular (CV) events in people with documented coronary artery disease (CAD). The recommendation calls for approximately 1 g/d of a mixture of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). (7) The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an omega-3 fatty acid ethyl ester formulation, at a dosage of 4.0 g/d, for the treatment of very high triglyceride levels. (6)