Research Study Shows Greater Bioavailability Of EPA & DHA From Omega-3 Supplements Delivered In A Unique Delivery System Compared To Standard Ethyl Ester Delivery
WEST HILLS, Calif., Jan. 14, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- A recent study showed enhanced bioavailability of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) administered in a proprietary self-micro-emulsifying delivery system (SMEDS) formulation compared to a standard ethyl ester delivery.
The study found that 500 mg of EPA and DHA delivered in a SMEDS formulation, compared to a standard ethyl ester formulation, resulted in significantly greater plasma concentrations of EPA+DHA. Specifically, the results indicate that the absorption of EPA+DHA from the SMEDS formulation was more than eight times that from the standard formulation when administered in the fasting state--on an empty stomach.
Typically, optimal absorption of ethyl ester EPA and DHA occurs with the consumption of a fat-containing meal, which helps make the EPA and DHA more available for absorption. However, because it is not always convenient or desired to consume a fat-containing meal, delivery forms like SMEDS are being developed to enhance omega-3 fatty acid absorption. The proprietary SMEDS formulation may be a feasible option for those looking for a convenient way to increase their EPA+DHA levels.
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, play important roles in a number of physiological functions and have been associated with several health benefits. The American Heart Association recommends consuming fish twice a week (at least 7 oz/week), and the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 8 to 12 oz of seafood/week, which should provide an average of at least 250 mg EPA + DHA/day.
Fatty fish such as salmon and albacore tuna are among the main sources of EPA and DHA in the U.S. diet, but average intake is low, equal to 23 mg of EPA and 63 mg of DHA per day--which is well below recommended amounts. Given the low average consumption of fish in the U.S., dietary supplements are a good option to help ensure recommended EPA + DHA intake is met.
The study results were published in the December 2018 issue of Clinical Therapeutics. The published paper, "Effects of a Self-micro-emulsifying Delivery System Formulation Versus a Standard -3 Acid Ethyl Ester Product on the Bioavailability of Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid: A Study in Healthy Men and Women in a Fasted State," can be accessed online here. The research study was supported by Pharmavite, LLC, and used the Nature Made Omega-3 with Xtra Absorb product.
About Pharmavite, LLC
Pharmavite is a leader in the health and wellness industry, earning the trust of healthcare professionals, consumers, and retailers by manufacturing high-quality nutrition products and solutions under its Nature Made(®), EQUELLE(®) and MegaFood and Innate Response brands. Pharmavite is dedicated to helping people live healthier more vital lives by producing the highest quality products and providing trust and transparency. Based in California, Pharmavite, LLC is a subsidiary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Visit www.pharmavite.com for more information.
SOURCE Pharmavite, LLC
