Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid primarily found in marine sources such as fish oil, has robust scientific validation for its use in lowering high triglyceride levels. Multiple large-scale, randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that EPA supplementation significantly reduces serum triglyceride concentrations, particularly in individuals with hypertriglyceridemia. EPA is thought to exert its triglyceride-lowering effects by reducing hepatic very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) synthesis and secretion, enhancing beta-oxidation of fatty acids, and inhibiting lipogenesis in the liver. Prescription formulations of EPA (such as icosapent ethyl) are approved by regulatory agencies like the FDA specifically for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia. Clinical guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association and the Endocrine Society recommend EPA-containing omega-3 fatty acids as an adjunct to diet in patients with elevated triglycerides, especially when lifestyle modifications alone are insufficient. Importantly, EPA may have a more favorable safety and efficacy profile compared to mixed EPA/DHA formulations, particularly in terms of not raising LDL cholesterol. The REDUCE-IT trial (2019), which used high-purity EPA, demonstrated not only significant reductions in triglyceride levels but also a decrease in major cardiovascular events among high-risk patients. Thus, the use of EPA for lowering triglycerides is well-supported by high-quality scientific evidence and is integrated into current clinical practice.

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Other ingredients used for Triglycerides (high)

Other health conditions supported by EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Products containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Nature's Sunshine Circulatory System
Nature's Sunshine DHA
Nature's Sunshine Krill Oil (With Vitamin K2)
Nature's Sunshine Super Omega 3 EPA
Nature's Sunshine Super Omega 3 EPA
Nature's Sunshine Super Trio