Omega-3 Science

DPA - Docosapentaenoic Acid

General Overview

Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, 22:5 n-3) is a third significant component of long chain Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. DPA is almost unknown but circulates in our body along with EPA and DHA (Simon, J.A. et al., 1995). It is available in OmegaVite Plus and in significantly higher amounts in OmegaVite Balance and Source.

DPA is often overlooked as a significant component of Omega-3 PUFAs. This is primarily because most studies on LC-PUFAS are done using fish or fish oil that contain only small amounts of DPA. Relatively few studies have been done using seal oil with its much higher content of DPA. DPA works with EPA and DHA to provide health benefits to the heart and to mothers and children.

Studies have shown that DPA has health benefits for the heart. Population studies show that higher levels of DPA result in lower rates of coronary heart disease risks (Simon, J.A. et al., 1995). In addition, while EPA is known for its cardiovascular benefits, DPA is said to be ten times more effective than EPA in healing damaged blood vessels. (Kanayasu-Toyoda, T. et al.,1996).

Health benefits of DPA in mothers and infants

Canadian marine oil expert Dr. Robert Ackman states that, "for nursing infants, DPA is always provided in breast milk and should be supplemented to replenish Omega-3 PUFAs loss in pre and postnatal mothers and infants." ( Ackman, R.G., 1997).

DPA is highest in seal oil and has less saturated fatty acids that fish oils (Bonefled-Jorgensen, E.C. et al., 2001).

Seal oil, rich in DPA, are carried off immediately by the blood as free acids. They are immediately available for an active role in lipids of blood vessel walls, in any cell of the liver, kidneys, brain, or where ever needed (Ackman, R.G., 1997).

All three components of Omega-3 PUFAs are found in maternal breast milk. DPA is a significant portion of maternal breast milk and so can be assumed to be perfectly safe. Seal oil is rich in DPA (Ackman, R.G., 1997).

For more information on LC OMEGA-3 PUFAs and specific ailments, illnesses and health benefits, please consult our Scientific Articles section for other articles and findings.