DPA in your patients' omega-3 supplements matter

Often called “fatty acids,” omega-3 supplements are one of the most commonly used dietary supplements by adults in the U.S. Because of where these are sourced, these supplements are commonly known as “fish oil” supplements to most patients.

These polyunsaturated fats aid the body in optimal function, including counteracting stress-related cell damage, increasing mitochondria activity within cells and boosting immune response.

As a doctor of chiropractic, understanding and relaying crucial information about optimal omega-3 supplements to your patients is part of your job.

But not every omega-3 supplement is created equal.

This article explains the vital role of Omega-3s and explores why one of the main types of omega-3–docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is crucial for optimal Omega-3 results.

Understanding omega-3 supplements

Because humans cannot produce optimal amounts of omega-3 fatty acids on their own, these essential nutrients must come from food and dietary supplements.

Omega-3 fatty acids ensure the cells in the body function at their peak performance. They provide structure and support between cells, provide the body with energy and support the health of a variety of bodily systems, like the endocrine and cardiovascular systems.

Research also suggests omega-3 supplements can reduce levels of triglycerides and may help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

There are three distinct types of omega-3s: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

The three most common are ALA, DHA and EPA, which naturally occur in plants and fish. But there’s another omega-3 fatty acid that shouldn’t be overlooked – DPA.

What your patients should know about DPA

DPA, also found in fish (like EPA and DHA), is not as well known as the other omega-3 fatty acids, but various studies have lauded its health benefits.

In fact, for some time, DPA was not considered part of the omega-3 fatty acid index. Presently, DPA is considered part of the omega-3 index, though it’s still underresearched in comparison to ALA and EPA.

In one study, DPA is referred to as the “iceberg n-3 fatty acid” because, despite its biological roles, studies and research have long overlooked it in favor of the other types of omega-3s.

However, research conducted indicates DPA has proved itself beneficial, particularly when dealing with inflammation and immune system integrity.

According to a study and review published in the NIH National Library of Medicine, DPA is linked to improvement in human health, showcasing studies that demonstrate “DPA reduces platelet aggregation, improves lipid metabolism endothelial cell migration and resolution of chronic inflammation.” Further, this review suggests other studies imply DPA can even improve neural health in humans.

In a 2019 study, DPA was used in a trial of ulcerative colitis models. When compared to both EPA and DHA, DPA showed to have a stronger result for reducing disease activity indexes and macroscopic appearances. That same study showed DPA was effective at halting pro-inflammatory cytokine production while simultaneously improving anti-inflammatory cytokine production.

But proper DPA–and other omega-3s–supplementation goes above and beyond just physical health. In fact, some research suggests omega-3 intake correlates with mental health.

It’s implied in a recent study published in the Global Health Journal that people who are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids sometimes experience an increased risk of developing psychiatric conditions and disorders like depression, dementia, bipolar and schizophrenia.

Offering patients optimal omega-3 DPA options

As a DC, part of your duty is to provide proper suggestions for health and supplementation for patients to achieve optimal health and wellness. Because omega-3s are a crucial part of this health and wellness picture, it’s vital to have a solid understanding of the options available, along with a list of approved suggestions you’re ready and confident to share with your patients.

When it comes to omega-3s, it’s important to remember that, like most supplements, not every available dietary supplement is created equal.

As discussed, omega-3 fatty acid supplements containing DPA can offer your patients a variety of benefits despite the fact that they’re lesser known than those containing the more popular EPA and ALA.

That being said, offering recommendations including multiple omega-3s, if not all three, can increase the potential value a single supplement can provide.

With Dee Cee Laboratories’ Superior Omega-3 Supplement, you can offer your patients streamlined access to an omega-3 supplement that includes DPA alongside EPA and DHA.

In just two soft gels, patients can intake 2,000 mg of menhaden fish oil accompanied by 550 mg of EPA and DHA, as well as 100 mg of DPA.

Explore the benefits of Superior Omega-3 Supplements from DeeCee Laboratories and learn more about their trusted process, FDA-registered facility and rigid quality control guidelines.