Omega-3 Fatty Acids Beneficial in Womens Health

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Beneficial in Womens Health

MALMO,SwedenA new study published in the Octoberissue of Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey (59,10:722-30, 2004) (www.obgynsurvey.com) concluded omega-3 essential fatty acids(EFAs)constituents of the membranes of all cells in the body and precursorsof locally produced hormones, eicosanoidsare important in the prevention andtreatment of various diseases, especially in women.

Scientists studied the effects of omega-3 EFAs on some of themost common conditions affecting women. One mechanism underlying dysmenorrhea isa disturbed balance between anti-inflammatory, vasodilator eicosanoids derivedfrom omega-3 EFAs and proinflammatory, vasoconstrictor eicosanoids derived fromomega-6 EFAs. Increased intake of omega-3 EFAs can reverse the symptoms inthis condition by decreasing the amount of omega-6 EFAs in cell membranes. Anincreased prostacyclin/thromboxane ratio induced by omega-3 EFAs can facilitatepregnancy in women with infertility problems by increasing uterine blood flow,according to the researchers.

Supplementation with omega-3 EFAs during pregnancy lowers therisk of premature birth and can increase the length of pregnancy and birthweight by altering the balance of eicosanoids involved in labor and promotefetal growth by improving placental blood flow. Intake of omega- 3 EFAs duringpregnancy and breast feeding also may facilitate child brain development. Someevidence also shows supplementation with omega-3 EFAs may help preventpreeclampsia, postpartum depression, menopausal problems, postmenopausalosteoporosis, and breast cancer.

Furthermore, the researchers noted, because elevatedtriglyceride levels are associated with cardiovascular diseaseespecially inwomen; and because omega-3 EFAs have powerful effects ontriglycerides, women in particular gain from an increased intake of these fattyacids. This is especially important in women receiving hormonetherapy, which can increase triglyceride levels.

As omega-3s play an essential role in human health, newscientific studies are constantly reinforcing their benefits, said MortenBryhn, M.D., Ph.D., director of research and development for Lysaker,Norway-based Pronova Biocare, makers of Epax® Omega-3 fish oils (www.epax.biz). We have been studying the benefits of omega-3s for womenfor years. Studies like these further support our efforts to educateconsumers especially womenabout the ongoing benefits of omega-3s.