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DIFFERENCE BETWEEN

38 Differences Between DHA And EPA

38 Differences Between DHA And EPA

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are two forms of omega-3 fatty acids that are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids in the body. They are found predominantly in specific types of fish, algae, and fish oil supplements.

DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid)

Docosahexaenoic acid, abbreviated DHA, is a kind of omega-3 fatty acid. It is a polyunsaturated fatty acid with a long chain that is essential for the formation and function of cell membranes, notably those in the brain, retina, and other nerve tissues.DHA is naturally found in fatty fish (such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna) and in smaller levels in algae. It is also available as nutritional supplements, which are frequently made from fish oil or algae oil.

DHA is an important structural component of brain tissue, accounting for a sizable fraction of brain cell membranes. It is critical for normal brain growth and function, particularly throughout foetal development and early infancy. It has been linked to better cognitive function, learning, and memory.

It is extremely concentrated in the retina of the eye. It is critical for keeping optimum vision and avoiding age-related macular degeneration and other eye problems. It is found in nerve cell membranes and aids in the transmission of nerve signals. It is thought to help with overall nervous system function and nerve cell communication.

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid)

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a form of omega-3 fatty acid found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as some algae. It is one among the essential fatty acids that the human body needs to function properly but cannot create on its own and must be received through diet or supplements.EPA is well-known for its numerous health advantages, especially its beneficial impact on cardiovascular health and inflammation.

EPA has been proven to have cardiovascular advantages such as reducing inflammation, lowering triglyceride levels, and improving overall lipid profiles.It can also help lower the risk of heart disease by encouraging healthy blood vessel activity and decreasing the possibility of blood clot formation.It has anti-inflammatory characteristics that can help modify the immunological response in the body. 

Chronic inflammation is linked to a variety of chronic diseases, and EPA’s capacity to lower inflammation may benefit general health.It has been investigated for its potential role in improving mood and mental health. According to some research, a higher EPA intake may be connected with a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Also Read: Cytokines vs Chemokines- 15 Major Differences

S.No.

Aspect

DHA

EPA

1

Full Name

Docosahexaenoic Acid

Eicosapentaenoic Acid

2

Type of Omega-3 Fatty Acid

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acid

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acid

3

Chemical Structure

Contains 22 carbon atoms and 6 double bonds

Contains 20 carbon atoms and 5 double bonds

4

Primary Food Source

Often found in fatty fish and seafood

Found in fatty fish and algae-based supplements

5

Health Benefits

Supports brain health and cognitive function

Supports cardiovascular health and inflammation

6

Brain Development

Crucial for brain development in infants

Less directly linked to brain development

7

Eye Health

Essential for vision development and retinal health

May have a role in eye health

8

Heart Health

Supports overall heart health

Supports cardiovascular health and function

9

Triglyceride Levels

Can help reduce triglyceride levels

Can help reduce triglyceride levels

10

Blood Pressure Regulation

May help regulate blood pressure

Can have a positive impact on blood pressure

11

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Can have anti-inflammatory effects

Can have anti-inflammatory effects

12

Cell Membrane Component

A major component of cell membranes

Present in cell membranes

13

Structural Role in Body

Contributes to brain, eye, and nervous system structure

Important for cell membrane structure

14

Cognitive Function

Supports cognitive function and memory

May have a role in cognitive health

15

Mood Regulation

Can contribute to mood regulation

Can influence mood and mental well-being

16

Autoimmune Conditions

May have a protective effect in autoimmune conditions

May help manage symptoms of autoimmune diseases

17

Atherosclerosis Prevention

May help prevent atherosclerosis

Can contribute to reduced risk of atherosclerosis

18

Antiarrhythmic Properties

May have antiarrhythmic effects

Can have antiarrhythmic effects

19

Gene Expression Regulation

May regulate gene expression related to inflammation

May regulate gene expression linked to inflammation

20

Inflammation Modulation

Can modulate inflammatory responses

Can modulate inflammatory responses

21

Cancer Prevention

Some studies suggest potential cancer prevention benefits

Some studies suggest potential cancer prevention benefits

22

Plaque Stabilisation

Can help stabilise arterial plaques

Can contribute to arterial plaque stabilisation

23

Anti-Thrombotic Properties

May have anti-thrombotic effects

Can have anti-thrombotic effects

24

Neurological Health

Supports neurological health and function

May have a role in neurological health

25

Alzheimer’s Disease

May play a role in reducing Alzheimer’s disease risk

May have a role in reducing Alzheimer’s disease risk

26

Dietary Sources

Found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines

Present in fatty fish and fish oil supplements

27

Maternal Health

Important for maternal and fetal health

Less directly linked to maternal health

28

Cellular Signalling

May impact cellular signalling pathways

Can influence cellular signalling pathways

29

Eicosanoid Production

Can lead to production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids

Can lead to production of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids

30

Skin Health

Can contribute to healthy skin

May play a role in maintaining skin health

31

Asthma and Allergies

May reduce symptoms of asthma and allergies

May reduce symptoms of asthma and allergies

32

Anti-Aging Benefits

May have anti-aging effects

May have anti-aging effects

33

Consumption Recommendations

Recommended intake varies by age and health status

Recommended intake varies by health status

34

Heart Arrhythmias

May help reduce the risk of certain arrhythmias

May help reduce the risk of certain arrhythmias

35

DHA to EPA Ratio

Higher DHA to EPA ratio may be beneficial

Balance of DHA and EPA can vary based on health goals

36

Infant Development

Vital for brain and nervous system development in infants

Less directly involved in infant development

37

Cellular Function

Plays a role in various cellular functions

Important for cellular function

38

Supplements

Available as a supplement in various forms

Available as a supplement in various forms

Also Read: Humoral vs Cell-mediated Immunity- 27 Differences

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What are DHA and EPA dietary sources?

DHA and EPA are abundant in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout. Fish oil supplements, algae-based supplements, and fortified foods are among more options. Plant-based sources, such as flaxseeds and walnuts, contain ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which can be converted to modest levels of DHA and EPA in the body.

What are DHA and EPA's health benefits?

DHA and EPA have been linked to a variety of health advantages. They promote heart health by lowering triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and the risk of arrhythmias. They are also important for brain health and development, boosting cognitive function and lowering the risk of neurodegenerative illnesses. DHA and EPA also have anti-inflammatory characteristics, which may help with illnesses like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

What are the benefits of DHA and EPA on brain health?

DHA is an important structural component of brain tissue that is required for brain development and function throughout life. The EPA is in favor of mood management and may play a role in lowering the risk of sadness and anxiety. These fatty acids aid in the maintenance of cell membrane integrity, the communication of brain cells, and the proliferation of neurons.

Should I supplement with DHA and EPA?

If you don’t eat fatty fish on a daily basis, you might consider taking fish oil pills to get enough DHA and EPA. However, before beginning any new supplement regimen, it is best to consult with a healthcare expert. Algae-based supplements may be an option for plant-based people or those with dietary limitations.

Can DHA and EPA aid with heart health?

Yes, DHA and EPA can aid in the improvement of cardiovascular health. They have been proven to lower blood pressure, improve blood vessel function, and lower lipid levels. These effects help to minimise the risk of heart disease and its complications.

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