The differential effects of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid on cardiovascular risk factors: an updated systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

ABSTRACT: Cardiovascular disease remains a major global health concern. The combination of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has been shown to beneficially modify a range of cardiovascular risk factors. However, whether EPA and DHA have differential effects or potencies is currently unclear. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ≥2 g/day of near pure EPA and DHA was conducted. A total of 24 publications from nine unique RCTs were included. EPA and DHA both lower triglyceride levels, with DHA most likely having a slightly greater effect. Furthermore, both EPA and DHA increase high density lipoprotein (HDL) 2 cholesterol, which is cardioprotective, with the increase being greater with DHA. DHA appears to increase low d

SUBMITTER: Choi GY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11471719 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature