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What is EPA acid? Discover the health benefits

 
Omega-3 acids - everyone has probably heard about them. We also usually realize that they affect the brain, concentration. Anything more? How about some specifics? Here comes, for example, EPA acid, which belongs to the group of Omega-3 acids, and its range of action is so wide that it is hard to imagine. EPA acids are not produced on their own, and this means that we need to consume them in diet or supplementation. Why is it so important? What is EPA acid? How does it work? Is it worth supplementing?

How does EPA acid work? Properties worth knowing

EPA acids, as we have already mentioned, are part of the Omega-3 group of fatty acids. They are also Essential Fatty Acids. They are fats crucial to health that are not synthesized by the body and must be supplied to the body with food or supplementation. EPA, like other EFAs, is characterized by tremendous - obviously positive - effects on the body. First of all, it has anti-inflammatory properties that enable it to alleviate chronic inflammation that leads to the development of many diseases. Among them, heart disease, type 2 diabetes or even some cancers. People suffering from Hashimoto's disease are also prone to inflammation, but also other autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus, psoriasis and even multiple sclerosis. EPA acid can therefore help control the disease and improve quality of life.
EPA acids also benefit blood vessel health, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. EPA also has an effect on mental health. Studies show that a regular supply of Omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety[1]. EPA acid is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which help maintain well-being and emotional balance.

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EPA acid - for whom?

You already know how important EPA acid is for health. The effects of EFA on the body are invaluable. Who can benefit from supplementation of this fatty acid? When is it especially worth including it in your diet? It is suitable not only for seniors or pregnant women.
  • People exposed to long-term stress - at work, at home, at school, anywhere. Chronic stress is a difficult condition for our body. It causes a constant increase in cortisol levels, which can cause inflammation in the body and contribute to many health problems. EPA acids help reduce inflammation, but also support the production of serotonin and dopamine, which improve mood and reduce feelings of fatigue. They also enable the body to recover better from periods of intense stress, and help achieve emotional balance. Among other reasons, EPA acids are also ideal for people struggling with depression.
  • People with inflammatory diseases - EPA acids can help people suffering from autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation in the body. These are, for example, rheumatoid arthritis or Hashimoto's disease.
  • Physically active people and athletes - faster recovery after exercise, support for joint health - these are important factors for people who play sports frequently or professionally. EPA acid is also responsible for this.
  • Elderly - seniors are the group most at risk for cardiovascular disease, as well as cognitive decline. EPA acid reduces the risk of developing dementia, and may also reduce the severity of symptoms of this syndrome [2].
  • Pregnant women - EPA acids are very beneficial for pregnant women, as they support the development of the nervous system, vision and brain of the fetus. However, they can also have a positive impact on mom's mental health, reducing the risk of postpartum depression.

How to supplement EPA acid?

EPA acid should be absorbed either with food or in the form of supplements. The requirement, depending on your age and gender, as well as the period of life you are in, can range from 500 to 100 mg per day. In the diet, the best sources of EPA acid are fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines and mackerel. Eating at least twice a week allows you to provide your body with adequate amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA. However, people on vegetarian and vegan diets, as well as those who do not eat fish often enough, should supplement EPA acids. There are also vegan formulations on the market that extract EPA and DHA acids from marine algae.
EPA acid is one of the most important fatty acids for our bodies. It's hard to overestimate its value for keeping our heart and brain healthy, but also taking care of our psyche. Including it in our daily diet - either through fish or proper supplementation - is a good choice for each of us, regardless of gender or age.



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