linolenic acid conversion to eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Supplements
Flaxseed oil is available as an alpha-linolenic acid supplement. A number of fish oils are marketed as omega-3 fatty acid
supplements.
Ethyl esters of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid
are concentrated sources of marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids.
Docosahexaenoic acid supplements derived from algae are also
available.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements ar
e absorbed more efficiently
with meals. Dividing one’s daily dose into two or three smaller doses throughout the day decrease gastrointestinal side effects.
Although cod liver oil is a rich source of eicosapentaenoic acid
and docosahexaenoic acid, it also contains potentially toxic levels of vitamin A and vitamin D. Infant Formula
US infant formula manufacture
rs market products with
docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid added.
Manufacturers are not required to list the amounts on the label.
Interactions
Interactions are listed in the footnote.
17
17 Interactions Nutrient Linoleic Acid Alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid compete for the same enzymes. The interaction is probably most important in those who have low eicosapentaenoic acid and
docosahexaenoic acid intakes.
Eicosapentaenoic acid accumulates in brain and retinal membranes when docosahexaenoic acid is
inadequate, as happens in alpha-linolenic acid deficiency.
Vitamin E Limited data suggests that the amount of vitamin E required to prevent lipid peroxidation increases with the
amount of polyunsaturated fat consumed.
Drug Flaxseed Oil (Alpha-Linolenic Acid). May decrease clotting. Use with caution in those on anticoagulant medications.
Function Alpha-Linolenic Acid
The only known function of alpha-linolenic acid is to serve as a
precursor for the synthesis of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Eicosapentaenoic Acid
Eicosanoids are chemical messengers derived from 20-carbon
polyunsaturated fatty acids. They play roles in immune and inflammatory responses.
In general, eicosanoids derived from eicosapentaenoic acid are
less potent inducers of inflammation, blood vessel constriction, and clotting than eicosanoids derived from arachidonic acid. Docosahexaenoic Acid Vision
Docosahexaenoic acid plays a role in the regeneration of the
visual pigment rhodopsin, which plays a critical role in the visual transduction system that converts light to vision. Nervous System Function
Docosahexaenoic acid is thought to be important to neurologic
function; the mechanisms of action are uncertain. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Regulation of Gene Expression
Omega-3 fatty acids may regulate gene expression through their
effects on the activity of transcription factors.
Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic acid Anticoagulants.
Fish oil or marine-derived omega-3 fatty acid ma
y interact, increasing
anticoagulant effects.
Mixed studies.
Antihypertensive agents.
May increase antihypertensive effects.
Nutrition for Sports, Essentials of 83
