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EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid, is an omega-3 fatty acid that has been shown to be beneficial for multiple bodily systems. (source)
Low serum EPA levels may result from physiological factors affecting the body's ability to synthesize and metabolize omega-3 fatty acids, with the liver and adipose tissue playing key roles in these processes. Nutritionally, insufficient intake of EPA-rich foods, like fatty fish and flaxseeds, can contribute to lower serum levels. (source, source)
Prioritize fatty fish: Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids increases EPA. Fatty fish are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming fatty fish increases EPA. (source, source) 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)
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: Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids increases EPA. Fatty fish are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming fatty fish increases EPA. (source, source) 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 EPA. (source) Fish oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids increases EPA. (source, source) Recommendation: Consume at least 3 g of fish oil supplements daily.
High serum EPA levels can often result from physiological factors related to the metabolism and processing of omega-3 fatty acids by the liver. Nutritionally, consuming a diet rich in sources of EPA, such as fatty fish or fish oil supplements, can contribute to elevated levels in the bloodstream. Maintaining a balanced diet with adequate omega-3 intake supports overall health, including cardiovascular and brain function, while regular monitoring ensures optimal EPA levels. (source, source)
Limit foods high in omega-3 fatty acids: Ingestion of omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to increase EPA. (source) Limiting the intake of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids will decrease EPA. 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 EPA. (source) Limiting the intake of omega-3 fatty acids will decrease EPA. Recommendation: Monitor excess omega-3 fatty acid intake and concentrations in supplements.
