Evidence supporting the use of: Polyunsaturated fatty acid
For the health condition: Strokes
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been investigated for their effects on stroke risk and recovery. Scientific evidence shows that increased intake of omega-3 PUFAs is associated with a modest reduction in the risk of ischemic stroke, which is the most common type of stroke. Mechanistically, PUFAs can reduce inflammation, inhibit platelet aggregation, and improve endothelial function, all of which are relevant to stroke prevention. Observational studies and some randomized controlled trials suggest that diets higher in PUFAs—especially from fish—are linked to lower rates of stroke. However, interventional studies using PUFA supplements have produced mixed results, with some large trials showing little or no protective effect. The American Heart Association acknowledges the potential benefits of omega-3s in cardiovascular health, but does not specifically recommend them solely for stroke prevention or treatment due to inconsistent evidence. There is less evidence supporting the use of PUFAs for acute stroke treatment or improving recovery post-stroke. In summary, while there is some scientific basis for using PUFAs to reduce stroke risk, the overall strength of evidence is moderate, and supplementation should be considered as part of broader dietary and lifestyle interventions rather than as a standalone therapy for stroke.
Other ingredients used for Strokes
acetyl l-carnitinealgal oil
anthocyanins
citicoline
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
fisetin
ginkgo biloba
nattokinase
omega-3 fatty acids
resveratrol
tocotrienols
vinpocetine
swertia
7,8-Dihydroxyflavone
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Acetylsalicylic acid
Apocynin
Butylphthalide
bacoside
Crocetin
Danshen
Eicosapentaenoic Acid
Other health conditions supported by Polyunsaturated fatty acid
Alzheimer's DiseaseAngina
Arteriosclerosis
Arthritis
Asthma
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Circulation (poor)
Congestive Heart Failure
Depression
Diabetes
Fatty Liver Disease
Heart (weakness)
Hypertension
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Memory and Brain Function
Metabolic Syndrome
Migraine
Multiple Sclerosis
Osteoporosis
Parkinson's Disease
Peripheral Neuropathy
Psoriasis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Stress
Strokes
Thrombosis
Triglycerides (high)