Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oils and certain marine sources, as well as in smaller amounts in some terrestrial animal fats. While DPA has not been as extensively studied as its omega-3 counterparts EPA and DHA, emerging scientific evidence suggests that DPA may have a role in supporting healthy cholesterol levels. Several preclinical and small human studies indicate that DPA can reduce triglycerides and potentially improve the cholesterol profile by lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol and raising HDL ("good") cholesterol. One proposed mechanism is DPA's ability to reduce hepatic triglyceride synthesis and promote cholesterol efflux from macrophages, which could reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. However, most clinical trials investigating omega-3 supplementation for cholesterol management use mixtures of EPA, DHA, and DPA, making it difficult to isolate the effect of DPA alone. The evidence is therefore less robust than for EPA and DHA, with few large-scale, randomized controlled trials focusing exclusively on DPA. Overall, while there is some scientific basis for the use of DPA in managing high cholesterol, the level of evidence is limited and not yet definitive. More research is needed to clarify its distinct benefits compared to other omega-3 fatty acids.

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Other ingredients used for Cholesterol (high)

Other health conditions supported by DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)

Products containing DPA (docosapentaenoic acid)

Pure Encapsulations Pro-Resolve Omega
Douglas Laboratories QÜELL® FISH OIL DHA Ultra SPM