Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3): benefits, dosage, contraindications

Essential

Dietary sources of ALA are necessary during pregnancy and breastfeeding, not only because of their rich nutritional composition, but also to avoid complex mixtures of herbal supplements that can endanger the health of the mother and child. rnrnPlant sources of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids could be considered an option for pregnant women who cannot tolerate fatty fish. The amount and profile of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids consumed by the breastfeeding mother are paramount for the infant's health, as the mother's diet is directly reflected in the fatty acid profile of the milk. Exclusively vegan diets should be carefully reviewed due to the risk of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid deficiency. rnrn

Usages associés

Cardiovascular

Myocardial infarction is a complex process initiated by endothelial injury of the coronary artery, by the accumulation of lipids in the vascular wall, inflammatory reactions causing rupture of the atheromatous plaque and subsequent thrombus formation. rnrnFatty acids have variable effects on all of these biological processes. However, alpha-linolenic acid does not appear to have the same physiological effects as EPA and DHA. Indeed, ALA lowers plasma triglycerides and slightly increases HDL and LDL cholesterol.rnrnFurthermore, the relationship between ALA consumption and the occurrence of coronary events is less well established, unlike EPA and DHA, which reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease and sudden death. rnrnThe effects of EPA and DHA appear to be similar to those of alpha-linolenic acid with respect to hemostatic factors such as thromboxane production, bleeding time, and other factors. rnrnrnrnrn

Usages associés

Anticancer

Alpha-linolenic acid appears to play a role in the prevention of breast cancer. There is evidence that women with higher levels of alpha-linolenic acid in breast adipose tissue have a lower risk of breast cancer. Researchers believe that a high intake of alpha-linolenic acid may have a protective effect against cancer. rnrnrnrn

Anti-inflammatory

ALA reduces the production of arachidonic acid and decreases the biosynthesis of inflammatory eicosanoids, but not to the same extent as EPA and DHA. Cytokines, another important group of inflammatory mediators that are generated in response to inflammatory eicosanoids, are influenced by changes in the omega-3/omega-6 ratios in cell membranes. rnrnA number of studies have confirmed that high-dose consumption of flaxseed oil, which is rich in ALA, reduces endothelial inflammation and lowers levels of inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein and interleukin (IL)-6, as well as certain adhesion markers.rnrnrnrn