EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids both drive anti-inflammatory gene expression, while DHA is better at lowering triglycerides and decreasing inflammatory markers, according to recent studies that are said to be a “leap forward” in our understanding. Data published in Atherosclerosis indicated that high dose omega-3s produce gene expression in immune cells. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study showing DHA>>EPA decreases inflammatory markers such as C-Reactive Protein and Interleukin-18. A third study in PLEFA found that DHA 2.7 grams per day increased Omega-3 Index by an average of 5.6% (EPA increased it 3.3%).
Together, these studies mark an important shift from epidemiological research to well-designed intervention studies that teas apart the true benefits of EPA and DHA supplementation.