Positive Health Online

Abstract

YAZAWA, Graduate School of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8477, presents a review (10 references) on the importance of the essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Abstract: Lifestyle-related disease is on the increase in Japan as the culture becomes more westernized and people live to an older age. Prevention, treatment and therapy for these diseases are attempted using certain foods and supplements such as Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA). There have been many reports on the pharmacological functions and mechanisms of action of DHA and EPA. Also, in the past few years, highly purified oils have become available for addition to human and animal food. EPA ethyl ester has become a widely used preventive medicine in Japan. Initially it was used (1990) in arteriosclerosis as an agent that prevents platelets from clotting. In 1994, its effectiveness in triglyceride reduction was recognized, and the market was extended to cases of hyperlipidaemia. DHA has been shown to improve senile dementia, atopic dermatitis, and the control of aggression against others caused by stress. It is also used as a preventive for hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, and cancer.

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References

Yazawa K. Importance of 'health foods', EPA and DHA, for preventive medicine. Rinsho Byori 52 (3): 249-253, Mar 2004.