Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found primarily in fish oil. Its use in Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is based on its well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. EPA is known to modulate inflammatory pathways by serving as a precursor for less inflammatory eicosanoids and by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Several preclinical studies and small clinical trials have indicated that EPA supplementation can reduce intestinal inflammation and improve some symptoms in patients with IBD.

Despite this mechanistic rationale, the clinical evidence supporting EPA’s efficacy in IBD remains modest. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials have generally found only small, if any, benefit over placebo for maintaining remission or reducing disease activity in IBD. For example, a 2014 Cochrane review concluded that omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, did not significantly reduce relapse rates in Crohn's disease. Some studies have noted improvements in secondary outcomes, such as quality of life or inflammatory biomarkers, but these results are inconsistent and often limited by small sample sizes and methodological differences.

In summary, while there is a sound scientific rationale for using EPA in IBD and some preliminary evidence of benefit, large-scale, high-quality trials have not confirmed a strong clinical effect. Thus, EPA may be used as a complementary approach, but it is not a substitute for established therapies.

More about EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
More about Inflammatory Bowel Disorders

Other ingredients used for Inflammatory Bowel Disorders

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