Willner Spring Sale 2020

Since 1911 • Willner Chemists: The Nutritional Supplement Professionals Page 61 To place an order, go to www.willner.com or call (800) 633-1106 EPA vs. DHA OMEGA-3: IS ONE BETTER THAN THE OTHER? Summary EPA vs. DHA Heart health EPA and DHA are nutrients that provide life-sustaining benefits for human health. From conception to old age, humans need EPA and DHA and since we cannot make these fats in our bodies, we must eat them. EPA and DHA are omega-3 fats and the predominant fats in fish and seafood and purified fish oils. The relative amount of EPA and DHA in fish and seafood differs but EPA and DHA always occur together in fish and seafood. For example, salmon can have more DHA or EPA, depending on the species; pollock has more EPA while sardines usually have about equal amounts of both. The relative amount of EPA and DHA in the human body differs according to diet and supplementation, but EPA and DHA work together in the human body, too. Since EPA and DHA are biologically active nutrients that occur together and work together, it is difficult to identify distinctly different biological functions. However, here is a summary of what nutrition scientists have learned about EPA and DHA to-date. [1-6] When babies are in the womb, DHA builds critical brain, eyes, and nerve cells. EPA and DHA are instrumental in supporting heart health. Both EPA and DHA reduce triglycerides and support healthy blood pressure levels; they also promote healthy heart rate and normal blood flow. In addition, EPA supports good circulation while DHA helps create a more healthful form of circulating LDL-cholesterol. DHA is an essential nutrient for eye health and good vision. EPA and DHA promote healthy brain function and good mental health. To support healthy mood, research shows that both EPA and DHA with relatively more EPA is helpful. Among middle-age adults, DHA is associated with clearer mental health. DHA is the source of neuroprotectins , which are thought to support the health and repair of brain cells. Healthy babies Healthy vision Mental Health EPA and DHA occur fish, seafood, and fish oils. Regular intake of EPA and DHA improves human health. EPA and DHA work together in the human body. By Gretchen Vannice, MS, RDN >> Continued on page 62