Epa
Women's Health
Overview
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (C20:5 n-3).
- It is found primarily in marine fish and algae.
- EPA is routinely taken as a dietary supplement to augment the body’s supply of highly bioactive omega-3s.
- It supports cardiovascular, inflammatory, and neurological health.
Chemistry
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a 20-carbon polyunsaturated fatty acid with five cis-double bonds at positions 5, 8, 11, 14, and 17 (C20:5 n-3).
- Its molecular formula is C₂₀H₃₀O₂.
- The systematic IUPAC name is (5Z,8Z,11Z,14Z,17Z)-eicosa-5,8,11,14,17-pentaenoic acid.
- EPA is a liquid at room temperature.
- It is insoluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, chloroform).
- The molecule’s high degree of unsaturation makes it susceptible to oxidation; thus, antioxidant stabilization (e.g., tocopherols) is often added to supplements.
- The double-bond configuration dictates its ability to:
- Serve as a substrate for COX/LOX enzymes.
- Integrate into membrane phospholipids, influencing membrane fluidity and signaling.
Sources & Quality
- EPA is primarily sourced from marine fish (e.g., anchovies, sardines, mackerel, salmon) and algal cultures (Schizochytrium and Nannochloropsis).
- Fish-oil extraction typically uses low-temperature molecular-distillation or supercritical CO₂ to preserve EPA integrity.
- This is followed by winter-grade purification to remove contaminants (PCBs, dioxins).
- Algal-derived EPA is produced via fermentation of micro-algae.
- It offers a vegetarian, GMO-free, and more sustainable source.
- It typically yields a higher EPA-to-DHA ratio (≥70 % EPA).
- Quality-focused supplements:
- Verify EPA content through gas-chromatography.
- Report oxidative indices (PV < 5 meq O₂/kg).
- Provide third-party certifications (e.g., IFOS, USP).
- Choosing products with verified EPA content, low oxidation, and transparent sourcing ensures efficacy and safety.
Where to Buy Epa
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