Evidence supporting the use of: Docosahexaenoic Acid
For the body system: Prostaglandins

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid commonly found in fish oil and marine sources. Its most well-documented roles are in brain, eye, and cardiovascular health. Regarding the prostaglandin system, DHA plays a role in modulating the biosynthesis of eicosanoids—signaling molecules derived from fatty acids, which include prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. Prostaglandins are involved in inflammation, immunity, and various physiological functions.

Numerous in vitro and animal studies, as well as some clinical data, indicate that DHA can influence the profile of prostaglandins produced in the body by competing with arachidonic acid (AA), the main substrate for pro-inflammatory prostaglandin synthesis. By incorporating into cell membranes and altering substrate availability for cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, DHA can decrease the production of certain pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (such as PGE2) and increase the production of less inflammatory or anti-inflammatory eicosanoids (such as those derived from EPA and DHA).

However, direct clinical evidence linking DHA supplementation to improved prostaglandin-mediated health outcomes in humans is moderate. Most data are mechanistic or indirect. The overall evidence supports a modulatory role for DHA in the prostaglandin system, but more high-quality clinical trials are needed to clarify its therapeutic impact on prostaglandin-mediated conditions.

More about Docosahexaenoic Acid
More about Prostaglandins

Other body systems supported by Docosahexaenoic Acid

Arteries
Blood
Brain
Circulatory System
Eyes
Heart
Immune System
Nerves
Prostaglandins

Products containing Docosahexaenoic Acid

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.