Studies show that EFAs Reduce the Stress Response
July 27, 2020 Puzzle Piece
EFA
deficiency is common today because of modern dietary and lifestyle
choices, and environmental factors. Our food has become heavily
processed, making it devoid of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
essential for optimal health. People now have trouble converting healthy
fats onto their usable forms. EFA deficiency can eventually lead to
heart disease, inflammation, endocrine problems and even death.
EFA deficiency has been identified in many diseases including mental
disorders, diabetes, atherosclerosis, hypertension, eczema, PMS, immune
dysfunction, and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
EFAs may help improve these conditions.
EFAs and the Stress Response
Researchers in France (Delarue et al. 2003) did one of the most
important studies regarding the connection between omega-3 fatty acids
and stress. They measured the stress response to mental arithmetic and
other stressors before and after feeding human volunteers 7.2 grams of
fish oil a day as supplements for three weeks. The measurements included
plasma cortisol, catecholamine (epinephrine and norepinephrine), and
non-esterified fatty acid.
The response to stress, including elevations of cortisol, epinephrine,
and fats, was dramatically reduced by supplementation with omega-3 fatty
acids. They concluded that adrenal activation could be inhibited by
adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
Low dietary intake of omega-3 fats from fish has been associated with
increased anger, aggression, and depression in some people – taking
EPA/DHA supplements can reduce these effects.
A study done at the New York Veterans Administration hospital by
Buydens-Branchey and colleagues (2000) found that in male outpatients
who had aggressive behavior and substance abuse, a daily 3-gram dose of
fish-oil supplements (containing 2,250 milligrams of EPA and 500
milligrams of DHA) reduced anger scores significantly, compared to a
placebo.
Because anger and aggression equate to high cortisol levels, this study
confirms the benefits of omega-3 supplementation in reducing cortisol
elevation.
Researchers in Japan (Hamazaki and Itomura 2000) showed a decreased
norepinephrine concentration (31 percent less) in students given 1.5
grams of DHA during the week of an exam. They also showed a marked
reduction in measures of hostility (72 percent less) in students on EPA
supplementation compared to controls, when faced with the stress from
final exams.
In 2010, Noreen and colleagues showed that EPA/DHA can blunt the
increase in cortisol found after intense exercise. They studied
forty-four men and women, who were put on either 4 grams of EPA/DHA
(providing 1,660 milligrams of EPA and 800 milligrams of DHA) or 4 grams
of safflower oil. After six weeks of treatment, there was a significant
decrease in cortisol and fat mass, and an increase in fat-free mass in
the group on EPA/DHA.
EPA and DHA are building blocks for the anti-inflammatory eicosanoid
hormones. Recent findings by Calder (March 2012) reveal that substances
called pro-resolution molecules, including lipoxins, resolvins, and
protectins, are used by the body to turn off chronic inflammation.
EPA/DHA has a major influence on enhancing production of these
molecules, reducing chronic inflammation and therefore cortisol levels.
Optimal EFA
Optimal E.F.A. is a unique blend of stabilized oils from plant
sources only, making this a choice essential fatty acid source for
vegetarians and for those who want to avoid any level of Heavy Metals,
PCBs and other toxins found in supplements made from fish oils.
We source our ALA from flaxseed oil, the richest source of ALA, DHA from
algae, the only vegetable based DHA source, and GLA from borage oil,
the richest source of GLA. This completely removes the risk of mercury
and other contaminants.
OHS has teamed with one of the leading capsule manufacturers to
encapsulate a complete blend of EFAs in a capsule utilizing a patented
sealing process which virtually eliminates the end product's exposure to
oxygen.
Traditionally DHA oil is obtained from fish. Unfortunately, there is no
body of water that is free from the ravages of pollution. Fish contain
high levels of toxic materials. Our DHA oil is derived from micro-algae
grown in controlled vats, thereby yielding contaminate free DHA, and it
is vegan safe.
Dosing
Take 1 capsule two times daily with meals, or as directed by a health professional.
Take Your Adrenal and Overall Health to the Max by Adding Opti-Adrenal.
Opti-Adrenal, a synergistic blend
supports all of the General Adaptation Syndrome to neutralize the many
degenerative effects of stress. It is a No.1, best-selling Dr. Brimhall
formula for years. This all-inclusive blend of whole food predigested
nutrients and bioavailable glandulars provide the adrenal/body boost and
support you need to have a healthy response to stress.
Dosing
Take 2 capsules 2 times per day, once in the morning, and once in the evening.
Yours in Health and Wellness,
John W Brimhall, BA, BS, DC, FIAMA
(Only registered customers can rate)
There are no comments for this product.