Fish oil rich in EPA and DHA which are the two prominent omega-3 fattay acids is heart healthy for both men and women, but a new study finds that EPA and DHA have different effects on men and women .
The study, published in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, suggests that differences in how males and females process eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) could affect platelet aggregation – due to interactions with sex hormones. “The distinctive gender-specific, inhibitory response pattern observed in our study suggests that males may benefit more from EPA supplementation while females are more responsive to DHA,” wrote the researchers, led by Monohar Garg from the University of Newcastle in Australia.
Platelet aggregation occurs when platelets in the blood clump together. Platelet aggregation is part of the sequence of events leading to the formation of a thrombus (clot), and is a major risk factor for heart attacks and stroke. Previous research has shown omega-3 to have a protective role over thrombotic events; although it remains unclear which forms of omega-3 are the most advantageous.
For this study, researchers wanted to study the effects of dietary supplementation with EPA- or DHA-rich oils on platelet aggregation in healthy male and females. They conducted a blinded placebo-controlled trial involving 15 male and 15 female subjects. Platelet aggregation was measured at baseline and 2, 5 and 24 hours after each received a supplement of a single dose of a placebo, an EPA-rich oil capsule, or DHA-rich oil capsules. The relationship between each EFA and platelet activity at each time point was examined according to gender.
EPA was seen to be highly effective in men when compared to DHA and placebo, whereas in women it was DHA that was found to be significantly more effective than EPA and placebo.
“We have shown that gender-specific responses exist in platelet aggregation in the 24 h following dietary supplementation with a single oral dose of EPA or DHA rich oil capsules. – These data confirm our previous observations..,” stated the researchers.
The findings of the study could see a change in how omega-3’s are delivered in dietary supplements.
Source: Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases. Published online ahead of print, doi:10.1016/j.numecd.2010.04.012 “Gender-specific inhibition of platelet aggregation following omega-3 fatty acid supplementation” Authors: M. Phang, A.J. Sinclair, L.F. Lincz, M.L. Garg.
New Research to appear in Journal of Nutrition (September 2010) finds that fish oils and diets rich in omega-3 compounds can help improve the health of people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, insulin resistance, high cholesterol levels, and abdominal fat commonly known as metabolic syndrome which increases the risk of heart attack and diabetes.
The study examined the effects of placing 117 people with metabolic syndrome on four different diets (a diet high in saturated fat, a diet high in monounsaturated fat, a diet low in fat and high in complex carbs such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and a low-fat diet high in complex carbs that was supplemented with omega-3 fatty acids).
The researchers found that participants on those diets rich in monounsaturated fat or low-fat, high complex carbs and omega-3 fatty acids had lower triglycerides than those in the other two groups.
“It would be interesting to extend out studies beyond 12 weeks to confirm the longer-term effects of dietary fat interventions on cardiovascular risk factors in metabolic syndrome,” according to the researchers.
Fish oil, when combined with epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG)—a polyphenol and antioxidant found in green tea, may affect chemical processes in the brain associated with Alzheimers disease, according to a study published in Neuroscience Letters. This study, which used an animal (mouse) model of Alzheimers disease, builds on previous research linking the disease to peptides (amino acid chains) called beta-amyloids and laboratory studies suggesting that EGCG decreases memory problems and beta-amyloid deposits in mice.
Researchers from the University of South Florida divided Alzheimer’s disease-model mice into five feeding groups. During a period of 6 months, each group was fed one of five diets: fish oil only; high dose EGCG; low dose EGCG; low?dose EGCG and fish oil; or a regular diet (control). The researchers observed that low dose EGCG alone did not reduce the Alzheimer’s disease-related chemical processes in the brain. However, the mice fed the combination of fish oil and EGCG had a significant reduction in amyloid deposits that have been linked with Alzheimer’s disease.
Further research is necessary, however, to determine if the combination of fish oil and EGCG affects memory or cognition, and whether it might have potential as an option for people at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Source: Giunta B, Hou H, Zhu Y, et al. Fish oil enhances anti-amyloidogenic properties of green tea EGCG in Tg2576 mice. Neuroscience Letters. 2010;471(3):134–138.
Fish oil supplement intake was found to be associated with a lower risk for breast cancer according to a study published in the July issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
“Use of nonvitamin, nonmineral ’specialty’ supplements has increased substantially over recent decades,” write Theodore M. Brasky, from Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, University of Washington in Seattle, and colleagues. “Several supplements may have anti-inflammatory or anticancer properties. Additionally, supplements taken for symptoms of menopause have been associated with reduced risk of breast cancer in two case-control studies there have been no prospective studies of the association between the long-term use of these supplements and breast cancer risk.”
“[T]his is the first prospective study to report on the association of specialty supplements with breast cancer risk,” the study authors conclude. “Our finding of a reduced risk of breast cancer with use of fish oil warrants further study of this agent, focused particularly on timing of exposure and dose, as well as on mechanisms of action that might explain differences by tumor stage or histologic type.”
The study was funded by The National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute.
Source: Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2010;19:1696-1708. Abstract
By Stephen Daniells, 18-Mar-2010
Supplements of omega-3 EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) may protect against bone loss during weightlessness, according to a new study from NASA.
Omega-3 is one of the stars of the nutrition industry, with the ingredients market valued at a whopping $1.6 billion by Frost & Sullivan. The fatty acids, most notably EPA and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), have been linked to a wide-range of health benefits, including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and certain cancers, good development of a baby during pregnancy, joint health, and improved behaviour and mood.
Read Full Story at: http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Research/NASA-examines-omega-3-for-bone-health-during-space-flight
At no other time of a woman’s life is she more concerned about good nutrition than during pregnancy. As a practicing obstetrician, one of the commonest questions I am asked is what should a pregnant woman eat to make sure her baby gets off to the best start in life. Scientific research continues to expand our knowledge of nutrition in pregnancy, and perhaps the most important recent development in this field is the role played by omega-3 fatty acids in the development of a healthy baby.
Omega-3 fatty acids are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are indispensable for human growth and development, yet are not synthesized by humans. These must be obtained from the diet, specifically from either fish or flaxseed oil. However, a “normal” adult diet is severely deficient in these critical nutrients.1 This imbalance is primarily the result of an American diet, which consumes less fish, grass-fed meat, and free-ranging poultry than was consumed decades earlier. This deficiency in omega-3 intake is compounded by the fact that after a woman’s first pregnancy, her maternal stores become depleted, rarely returning to pre-pregnancy levels. Subsequent pregnancies continue this depletion.
This lack of an essential nutrient is important, as Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to be a critical component for both neurological and early visual development of the baby. With approximately 60% of the brain composed of lipids, these types of compounds make up almost 20% of the total brain fatty acids. Recently published research has confirmed that adding these nutrients to the diet of pregnant women can definitely have a positive effect on visual and cognitive function of the child, with effects measurable up to the age of four.
Omega-3 fatty acids may also have positive effects on the pregnancy itself. One of the most feared medical complications of pregnancy is pre-eclampsia, also known as toxemia. Pre-eclampsia, which complicates approximately 5-10% of all pregnancies, is a leading contributor to maternal mortality, preterm delivery, fetal growth retardation, and perinatal mortality. Women with lower storehouses of omega-3 fatty acids have much more risk of developing pre-eclampsia. Whether supplementation can decrease the risk of pre-eclampsia is currently under study.
An even more important benefit is the role of omega-3 fatty acids in preventing pre-term labor and delivery. Women with lower amounts of omega-3 fatty acids have a higher risk of preterm labor, and supplementation with this vital nutrient has been shown to decrease the risk of this often catastrophic pregnancy complication. Omega-3 fatty acids may also lower the risk of post-partum depression, as well as the well-known benefits for preventing heart disease.
Fortunately, there are now easy ways to supplement a pregnant woman’s diet with this essential nutrient. One might think that eating more fish would be a simple, natural way to get more omega-3. However, due to increased mercury pollution caused by coal burning power plants, the levels of mercury in fish are getting dangerously high. The FDA has issued advisories that limit the amount of fish that is safe for a pregnant woman to consume. Specifically, large “predator” type fish such as swordfish, (fresh) tuna, shark, and mackerel are not considered safe for pregnant women. Canned “light” tuna is OK in moderation. Mercury is a potent neural toxin, and may be responsible for cognitive delays and other types of brain damage. Developing babies are the most vulnerable to this type of toxin.
A safer option may be vitamin supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to the fish oil capsules sold in health food stores, at least two brands of pre-natal vitamins contain omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also available in some types of infant formula. For breast-feeding mothers, supplementation would be recommended so the nutrients can pass to the baby in the breast milk.
Research into the role of this important nutrient is continuing, and all of the benefits may not be known for years, especially given the long time required to study the effects of brain development. However, the data so far seems to be encouraging, indicating a benefit for both mother and baby at this critical time of life. Pregnant moms have always wanted to give their babies every advantage in life, and one way to contribute is with good nutrition during pregnancy. Omega-3 fatty acids can be an important, maybe even a critical, addition to a pregnant woman’s diet.
Editorial provided by Steve Hasley, MD. Dr. Hasley is a practicing obstetrician at West Penn Hospital.
Original Source: http://www.expectantmothersguide.com/library/pittsburgh/omega-3.htm
Nordic Naturals Baby DHA
WATSONVILLE, Calif., April 15 /PRNewswire/ — Baby’s DHA from Nordic Naturals is the safe and effective way to ensure that growing babies from 5 to 35 pounds receive the important omega-3 essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Scientific research shows that an adequate intake of DHA is vital for the healthy development of the brain, eyes and nervous system in infants.
Packaged in a 2 oz. glass bottle with measured dropper, Baby’s DHA is made from Nordic Naturals Gold Standard Arctic Cod Liver Oil, sustainably sourced from 100% Arctic cod (Skrei), which is known to have the highest DHA content of any cod species. Suggested dosage is 1 to 4 ml, based on weight. One 4 ml serving contains 828 mg of EPA and DHA and 150 I.U. of Vitamin D3, the natural form of Vitamin D. The product does not contain gluten, milk derivatives, artificial flavors or colors and can easily be added to formula or food.
According to Dr. Tori Hudson, Nordic Naturals Advisory Board Member, “Both mother and baby have significant need for omega-3 essential fatty acids during pregnancy and after birth. Since these needs are not easily fulfilled through diet, I suggest that both supplement with a pure and high quality fish oil to ensure critical levels.” Studies have concluded that fish oil can be a healthier source of DHA than fish because environmental toxins can be removed from fish oil.
As a vertically integrated company, Nordic Naturals ensures that from catch to finished product its Arctic Cod Liver Oil delivers industry-leading purity and freshness levels, which surpass even the stringent Norwegian Medicinal and European Pharmacopoeia Standards.
Since 1995, Nordic Naturals has been the industry leader in fish oil supplementation, setting standards of excellence in the areas of purity, freshness, taste, and sustainability. With a reputation for efficacy and potency, Nordic Naturals fish oils and EFA blends are regularly chosen by independent research institutions and universities with 12 published scientific studies already completed and more than 30 currently underway. Distributing to over 20 countries on 6 continents, Nordic Naturals offers over 150 products in a variety of flavors, concentrations, and delivery forms. Nordic Naturals continues to deliver on its promise of innovation and quality you can trust. 800.662.2544 or www.nordicnaturals.com.
DENVER, April 8 /PRNewswire/ — Improving nerve regeneration after corneal surgery, preventing psychotic disorders in those at high risk for them and reducing cellular aging are three emerging benefits of the omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood, according to milestone research described in the April 2010 PUFA Newsletter and Fats of Life online publications for health professionals and consumers, respectively.
One study showed that after corneal surgery, such as LASIK, treating eyes with the omega-3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) plus a nerve growth factor helped regenerate corneal nerves, which can be damaged by surgery, reducing tear production and causing dry eye syndrome. When administered together, DHA and the nerve growth factor increased corneal nerve regeneration by up to three times.
“These results suggest enhanced nerve growth after corneal surgery and the possible preservation of healthy tear production,” said Joyce Nettleton, D.Sc., editor of the PUFA Newsletter and Fats of Life. “Shedding a tear could become something to celebrate.”
Another study among young patients at ultra-high risk of developing a psychotic disorder showed that after three months of consuming just over 1 gram of seafood omega-3s or a placebo daily, only 2 out of 41 patients (5%) taking omega-3s progressed to psychosis. In the placebo group, 11 of the 40 participants (28%) developed a psychotic disorder. These significant differences persisted for a year after treatment ended.
A third innovative study found that people with stable heart disease who had higher levels of DHA in their blood experienced less shortening of their telomeres than those with low DHA levels. When telomeres – protective ends of chromosomes – become too short, a cell no longer reproduces itself and “retires.” Evidence suggests that individuals with shorter telomeres have higher cardiac mortality and other unwanted consequences of aging. These observations raise the question of whether seafood omega-3s might slow cellular aging.
Other reports in the PUFA Newsletter and Fats of Life describe the critical importance of DHA in brain cell development and function, especially in the cortex, where learning and long-term memory occur.
“Findings suggest that DHA is essential for brain function and cell communication,” Nettleton noted. “Moreover, DHA might be important in repairing neurons damaged from diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, injury such as happens in stroke, and in normal cell wear and tear. DHA from seafood really appears to be brain food.”
To learn more about these and other new research about omega-3 fatty acids, see the PUFA Newsletter and Fats of Life at http://www.fatsoflife.com.
InterHealth Nutraceuticals’ signature joint health ingredient, UC-II®, is included in a new product from Nordic Naturals, the industry leader in omega-3 fish oils and EFA blends. Nordic Naturals introduced Omega Joint Xtra™ at the 2010 Natural Products Expo West with great feedback from attendees looking for the latest, innovative and scientifically-backed joint-health products.
Benicia, CA (PRWEB ) April 6, 2010 — InterHealth Nutraceuticals’ signature joint health ingredient, UC-II®, is included in a new product from Nordic Naturals, the industry leader in omega-3 fish oils and EFA blends. Nordic Naturals introduced Omega Joint Xtra™ at the 2010 Natural Products Expo West with great feedback from attendees looking for the latest, innovative and scientifically-backed joint-health products.
Omega Joint Xtra delivers a comprehensive joint-support formula based on the latest scientific developments. This advanced joint-health supplement provides a synergistic blend of ingredients including 1,100 mg of EPA and DHA plus 40 mg of UC-II® and 1,500 mg of glucosamine sulfate.
UC-II®, an all-natural patented undenatured type II collagen made and sourced in the United States from chicken cartilage, is backed by clinical data showing that just 40 mg a day increases joint mobility, flexibility and quality of life. UC-II® offers a unique mechanism of action that helps the body rebuild joint cartilage and complements omega-3’s ability to support the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response for a comprehensive joint-support approach. As the population ages so does interest in joint health. Omega Joint Xtra addresses this growing consumer demand.
Nordic Naturals has an exclusive relationship with InterHealth to offer products containing the combination of omega-3 fish oil with UC-II® undenatured type II collagen for the health food retail channel. “We are very excited to have UC-II® represented by such a respected industry leader with a long history of dedication to consumer health and wellness,” stated Paul Dijkstra, InterHealth’s CEO. “InterHealth and Nordic Naturals are both research-driven companies with a main focus on quality and a heavy investment in research. Nordic Naturals is not only known for its unique fish oil product innovations, but is also regarded as a benchmark in fish oil quality, purity and manufacturing. Given the consumer brand recognition and trust in Nordic Naturals and the growing research body behind UC-II®, Omega Joint Xtra will attract consumer attention.”
“We reviewed several ingredients for the Omega Joint Xtra formula and felt UC-II® offered the comprehensive research profile and quality consumers have come to expect from our products, as well as the intellectual property necessary to build and sustain competitive advantage. Differentiation and innovation are the key success factors for manufacturers of supplements and joint-health products. From this perspective, heavily researched, branded ingredients play an important part in product formulation. Our top priority is to make highly effective products that are safe. We accept nothing less,” stated Joar Opheim, Nordic Naturals CEO and Founder. On a personal note, Corinna Bellizzi, Nordic Naturals’ Retail Market Division Manager started taking Omega Joint Xtra a few weeks ago. “I hope to work through my over-training injuries so I can prepare to run marathons again this spring,” said Bellizzi.
“We are proud that Nordic Naturals has selected UC-II® for inclusion in Omega Joint Xtra,” stated Dijkstra. “InterHealth continues to conduct thorough research, publish studies, reach a wider audience and move closer to our goal of improving the joint health of millions on a global scale,” added Dijkstra.
By Stephen Daniells, 30-Nov-2009
Combining omega-3 fatty acids with glucosamine achieves better improvements in joint health than glucosamine alone, says a new study from Germany.
Full Article: http://www.nutraingredients.com/Product-Categories/Fibres-and-carbohydrates/Omega-3-plus-glucosamine-superior-for-joint-health-Study
