Is there a difference between EPA and DHA? Nutritionists reveal the benefits and contraindications of fish oil

In recent years, fish oil is always a popular health food.

However, there are many kinds of fish oil products on the market, and the ingredients behind them are always dazzling. The EPA and DHA that we often hear are also half-understood!

What are the effects of fish oil? Am I suitable for taking fish oil?

Fish oil refers to the oil extracted from deep-sea fish.

Salmon, mackerel, saury, sardines, etc. that live in extremely low-temperature seawater do not solidify their fat but remain liquid.dha algal oil powder This is because they are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids of the Omega-3 family-EPA and DHA.

These two ingredients play different roles in body functions.

Blood scavenger: EPA can fight inflammation, lower blood lipids, and reduce blood clots

EPA is the abbreviation of eicosapentaenoic acid.

From a metabolic point of view, EPA will compete with Omega-6 fatty acids for the same enzymes, inhibit the production of inflammatory substances, and play an anti-inflammatory role to protect the cardiovascular system.

EPA can also reduce the synthesis of fatty acids, increase the rate of cholesterol metabolism, help regulate blood lipids and blood cholesterol, and activate the relaxing factor of endothelial cells, inhibit platelet aggregation, and prevent myocardial infarction and cerebral embolism.

Protect your brain and eyes: DHA keeps your mind clear and your eyes bright

DHA is the abbreviation of docosahexanoic acid, and the human body can further convert EPA into DHA.

The human retina and brain cells have a large amount of DHA, which is an important component for the formation of cell membranes and neurotransmitters. It can provide a source of nutrition for brain synapses, enhance learning and memory, and make thoughts more vivid.

DHA is also one of the few nutrients that can reach the photoreceptor cells of the eyes. It can improve visual function and reduce light damage, reduce the incidence of macular degeneration and glaucoma, and regulate oil secretion to improve dry eyes.

Be careful when choosing fish oil! Consider your personal situation before supplementing

Fish oil rich in EPA and DHA is not only beneficial to cardiovascular health, but also helpful for brain cognition and eye care.

It is best to eat fish at least twice a week to supplement the excellent Omega-3 fatty acids from natural foods. If you don't like the smell of fish, are allergic to seafood, or have concerns about heavy metal pollution, you may choose health foods on the market.