Opti-EPA 500

Douglas Laboratories’ Opti-EPA™ is concentrated marine fish oil, providing enriched levels ofeicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 300 mg) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 200 mg). Opti-EPA™ delivers high levels of EPA and DHA, and is lower in saturated fatty acids than regular marine fish oil. Opti-EPA™ is strictly screened for the absence of any toxic metals and chemicals, and is completely free of cholesterol. The oil is carefully processed and handled to avoid oxidation.

Typical diets in developed countries deliver large amounts of saturated fatty acids and the polyunsaturated omega-6 linoleic and arachidonic acids and low levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Throughout evolution, humans were accustomed to diets providing roughly equal amounts of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. However, during the last 200 years, the ratio of dietary omega-6:omega-3 fatty acids increased from about 1:1 to 20-25:1. Leading health professionals now recommend a ratio between 4:1 and 10:1.

A healthy balance of dietary omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids appears to be a prerequisite for normal immune function. Dietary linoleic acid (18:2 omega- 6) is a precursor to arachidonic acid (20:4) which in turn is a precursor for pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2 and leukotriene B4, and platelet aggregating thromboxane A2. The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA provide a natural counterbalance, because they serve as precursors for the anti-inflammatory prostaglandins E1 and E3, and decrease the formation of prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane A2.

Among other factors, sufficient dietary levels of EPA, DHA or other omega-3 fatty acids are also important in the regulation of normal blood lipoprotein and healthy cholesterol metabolism.