Khaberni - Finnish scientists found that eicosapentaenoic acid found in fish oil and omega-3 supplements uniquely affects each person’s metabolism and its levels decrease in the body once the supplements are stopped.
Omega-3 fatty acids are an important factor in preventing arteriosclerosis
Participants in the research trial showed strong, albeit short-term, increases in eicosapentaenoic acid levels, with significant differences in fat levels from one individual to another.
According to "Science Daily", in the research trial, 38 volunteers were given unusually high doses of eicosapentaenoic acid supplements.
Blood samples were collected before, during, and after the supplements were taken to monitor how the body processed the fatty acids.
Body’s response to the supplements
The results showed significant differences among the participants in how their bodies responded to eicosapentaenoic acid.
Dr. Katarina Orni, a co-researcher from the University of Helsinki, explained that "every individual possesses a unique set of lipoproteins in their blood circulation, or what is called a 'lipid fingerprint', which persisted despite taking eicosapentaenoic acid supplements."
Increase and decrease in concentration
The researchers confirmed that eicosapentaenoic acid, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, is absorbed efficiently, causing a sharp increase in its blood concentration.
However, its levels quickly decreased once the intake of the supplements stopped.
The strongest changes were observed in participants who started with low baseline levels of eicosapentaenoic acid.
The researchers also noted that eicosapentaenoic acid reduced blood lipid levels, and decreased the tendency of lipoproteins to adhere to artery walls, which is an important factor in preventing arteriosclerosis.
