Three of the most important omega-3 fatty acids are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-3 fatty acids are primarily obtained from food sources, such as oily fish. They have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic effects, and can help to reduce triglyceride levels.
Increasing blood levels of long-chain n-3 fatty acids are associated with a lower risk of sudden cardiac death.
Based on the top (75th percentile) and bottom (25th percentile) quartiles of the CHL reference population, the following relative risk categories were established for OmegaCheck:
A cut-off of >=5.5% by wt defines a population at optimal relative risk,
3.8-5.4% by wt defines a population at moderate relative risk,
and <=3.7% by wt defines a population at high relative risk of sudden cardiac death.
The totality of the scientific evidence demonstrates that when consumption of fish oils is limited to 3 g/day or less of EPA and DHA, there is no significant risk for increased bleeding time beyond the normal range. A daily dosage of 1 gram of EPA and DHA lowers the circulating triglycerides by about 7-10% within 2 to 3 weeks. (Reference: 1-Albert et al. NEJM. 2002; 346: 1113-1118 link).
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Clinical significance:
- Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids reduces the occurrence of major acute cardiac events in healthy individuals or patients with cardiovascular risk factors or who have cardiovascular disease.
- Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids leads to a reduction in triglycerides and non-high-density lipoprotein (nonHDL), as well as lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) levels.
- A high intake of omega-6 fatty acid precursors can interfere with the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids.
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3.8-5.4% by wt defines a population at moderate relative risk,
and <=3.7% by wt defines a population at high relative risk of sudden cardiac death.
Increasing blood levels of long-chain n-3 fatty acids are associated with a lower risk of sudden cardiac death.
Treatment considerations:
These treatment considerations are for educational purposes only. Specific treatment plans should be provided and reviews by the treating practitioner.
Assess lifestyle habits:
- Consider diet/exercise/weight reduction efforts if appropriate.
- Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fishes (salmon, tuna, sardines), walnuts, flax and chia seeds, and plant oils.
Consider omega-3 fatty acid supplementation:
- If currently taking, consider adjusting dosage. If you want to take a plant-based omega-3 supplement to raise your Omega-3 Index, try algal DHA supplements. They are made from the microalgae that the fish eat. They are vegan and effective.
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