What are the health benefits of EPA?
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EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, offers several health benefits linked to mental and physical well-being:
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Depression Relief: EPA has been shown to reduce symptoms of major depression, with effects comparable to certain antidepressants, such as fluoxetine. A typical beneficial dosage is around 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams per day 1 2.
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Cognitive Function: Regular consumption of EPA supports cognitive function and mood improvement. This includes helping people with ADHD or mild attention deficits by potentially reducing the need for higher medication dosages 3 4.
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Inflammation and Pain Reduction: EPA can lower inflammation and alleviate pain, beneficial for conditions such as headaches or migraines. Increasing omega-3 intake while reducing omega-6s has shown significant effects in reducing pain and inflammation 5 6.
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Cardiovascular Health: While evidence is mixed concerning cardiovascular benefits, some studies suggest that for each gram of EPA ingested, there's a potential improvement in cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation 1.
These benefits make EPA a valuable component of a balanced diet, particularly through sources like fish oil or plant-based alternatives, for both mental and physical health 1 2.
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