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DPA, or docosapentaenoic acid, is an omega-3 fatty acid that has been shown to support multiple functions throughout the body. DPA plays an important role in cardiovascular and neural health as well as aiding in the reduction of systemic inflammation. (source)
Low serum DPA levels can be influenced by physiological factors related to the conversion of precursors like alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) into DPA and subsequent metabolism in organs like the liver. From a nutritional perspective, insufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those found in fatty fish and seafood, can contribute to lower DPA levels. (source, source)
Prioritize fatty fish: Fatty fish serve as a good source of DPA. (source) Consuming fatty fish increases DPA. Recommendation: Eat at least two servings of fatty fish a week.
One serving examples: Salmon (3 oz), Herring (3 oz), Bluefin Tuna (3 oz), Anchovies (3 oz), Mackerel (3 oz)
Prioritize grass-fed beef: Grass-fed beef serves as a good source of DPA. (source) Grass-fed beef contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, like DPA, than grain-fed beef. (source) Consuming grass-fed beef will increase DPA. Recommendation: Eat at least two 3 oz servings of grass-fed beef per week.
Avoid alcohol: Alcohol decreases omega-3 fatty acids. (source) Ethanol inhibits metabolic pathways that convert alpha-linolenic acid into omega-3 fatty acids. (source) Limiting alcohol consumption will increase omega-3 fatty acid levels in the body. Recommendation: Monitor alcohol intake. Try to limit consumption to one or two drinks daily, with the goal of less than three per week.
Eat fatty fish at restaurants: Fatty fish serve as a good source of DPA. (source) Consuming fatty fish increases DPA. Recommendation: When dining out, choose fatty fish over other sources of protein.
Supplement with fish oil: Fish oil supplementation has been shown to increase serum DPA. (source, source) Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids increases DPA. (source, source) Recommendation: Consume at least 3 g of fish oil supplements daily.
High serum DPA levels may stem from physiological factors linked to lipid metabolism, particularly in the liver where fatty acid processing occurs. Nutritionally, consuming a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish and seafood, can contribute to elevated DPA levels in the blood. (source, source)
Limit foods high in omega-3 fatty acids: Ingestion of omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to increase DPA. (source, source) Limiting intake of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids will decrease DPA. Recommendation: Monitor and limit excess consumption of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like fatty fish, to ensure optimal levels.
Monitor omega-3 fatty acids: Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids raises DPA. (source, source) Limiting intake of omega-3 fatty acids will decrease DPA. Recommendation: Monitor excess omega-3 fatty acid intake and concentrations in supplements.
