A new study suggests elevated omega-3s, especially DHA, makes for stronger and healthier bones.
The short-chain fatty acids known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) have been very popular among health and fitness experts for the past few decades. These two fatty acids are found most commonly in omega-3 supplements and have been associated with health benefits ranging from a decreased risk for cardiovascular health to help for those with behavior and/or mood conditions.
Now, researchers from Purdue University, Indiana University School of Medicine, Korea Maritime University, and the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) would like to add to the list of omega-3 benefits: bone health. In particular, the scientists were more interested in DHA, saying that it “appear[ed] to be a vital constituent of marrow.” However, the researchers were not able to support these same claims for EPA.
Research Methods
The study, led by one of Purdue’s scientists, utilized high tech x-ray measurements to analyze the effects of DHA on bone marrow in rat pups as compared to DPA (an omega-6 fatty acid), or a mix of DHA/DPA.
The rats, which were bred to be deficient in omega-3, were then randomly assigned to a groups which were schedule to receive milk fortified with one of the supplement combinations. The rats were permitted to reach adulthood, at which time they were scanned for any changes.
Results indicated that the subjects who received the DPA supplements generally had the lowest bone density. Additionally, the researchers noted that DHA was not replaced by DPA – a finding which suggests DHA likely plays a significant role in bone health.
EPA Considered A Candidate For Bone Health, Too
Other scientists working in this same field of research, namely NASA, have become something of a valuable resource. Building on the platform of existing omega-3 knowledge, scientists at NASA recently published findings that suggest EPA actually does protect against bone loss.
Source: <a title="Omega-3 Linked to Healthier, Stronger Bones: Rat Study
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