Synopsis

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

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, has some scientific rationale for its use in supporting Parkinson's Disease (PD), though the overall evidence is limited and preliminary. Parkinson’s Disease is characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the brain, with inflammation and oxidative stress playing significant roles in its pathology. EPA is known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which have been explored in various neurodegenerative diseases, including PD.

A small number of clinical studies and animal models have evaluated EPA supplementation in PD. Some open-label trials and pilot randomized controlled trials have suggested that EPA, and omega-3 fatty acids in general, may help alleviate depressive symptoms in PD patients, which are common non-motor symptoms. Furthermore, animal studies indicate that EPA might reduce neuroinflammation and oxidative damage, thereby potentially providing neuroprotection. However, evidence for direct motor symptom improvement or disease modification in PD patients is lacking.

Meta-analyses and systematic reviews generally conclude that while omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA, show promise for mood symptoms in PD, there is insufficient high-quality evidence to recommend their routine use for core Parkinson’s symptoms. Thus, the use of EPA in PD is justified by a scientific rationale and limited early evidence, but robust clinical validation is currently lacking.

More about EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
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Other ingredients used for Parkinson's Disease

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