Opti-DHA, Douglas Labs Enteric-Coated Softgels for Cardiovascular Health Opti-DHA enteric-coated softgels, provided by Douglas Laboratories, contain a novel ratio of essential omega-3 fatty acids, derived from marine lipid concentrate. Processed by molecular distillation, Opti-DHA is an excellent source of these fatty acids, providing 450 mg of docosahexeanoic acid(DHA) and 150 mg eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA) per serving. FUNCTIONS The omega-3 fatty acid EPA is the direct precursor for the anti-inflammatory prostaglandins E1 and E3, whereas DHA is of primary importance for the structural integrity of neuronal membranes. DHA is essential for brain and visual development and is vital throughout pregnancy to support fetal brain growth and formation of the retina and visual cortex. As the most abundant fatty acid in the brain, adequate amounts of DHA are needed throughout infancy and adulthood for ongoing optimal function. Low levels of DHA may adversely influence behavior and mental performance, and have been correlated with changes in disposition, memory loss, and visual and other neurological conditions. Studies have shown that DHA, along with EPA may play an important role in cardiovascular health. One landmark study, the GISSI-Prevenzione Trial, involved over 11,000 people who had already survived myocardial infarction. This was the first large scale trial that showed supplementation of essential fatty acids significantly lowered the risk of death, and that use of this supplement was safe. Interestingly, this trial used a supplement with a ratio of DHA to EPA of approximately 2:1. This is important to note, as most fish oil products contain more EPA than DHA. The exact reasons for such dramatic benefits with respect to heart disease remains unknown, but may be related in part to the ability of fish oil to reduce inflammation, a process intricately involved in the progression of atherosclerosis. Some researchers believe that the body’s inflammatory response to certain factors, along with a fatty diet, can increase the amount of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. Studies indicate that EPA and DHA can act as precursors for the anti-inflammatory prostaglandins E1 and E3, and decrease the formation of pro-inflammatory prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane A2. Scientists have also suggested that omega-3 fatty acids can have a direct cardiac effect on arrhythmogenesis. Omega- 3 fatty acids may be able to modify sodium channels by binding to the channel proteins. This could then prevent ischemia-induced ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac death. Additionally, Opti-DHA is enteric-coated, significantly reducing the fishy taste sometimes associated with marine lipid supplements. SUGGESTED USE Adults take 2 softgel capsules daily with meals or as directed by physician.  Supplement Facts   Container Size 60 SoftGels   Serving Size 2 Gels   Amount Per 2 Gels Content %DV     Calories 9   Total Fat 1 g 2 %   Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopherol) 3 IU 10%   Marine Lipid Concentrate 1000 mg *   Yielding Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) 450 mg *   Yielding Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) 150 mg *   % Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. * Daily Value (DV) not established. Product: Opti-DHA Manufacturer: Douglas Labs Item #: 98531-60X Content: 60 SoftGels