EPA ratio indicates the levels of cellular inflammation in the body. To understand this concept, it is important to get an overview of cellular inflammation. Cellular inflammation is referred to as the inflammation that occurs on a basic level and remains below the acuity of pain. It disturbs the hormonal signalling at the cellular level and leads to fat accumulation and less physical activity that further accelerates the chances of developing chronic diseases.
Cellular inflammation cannot be felt; in fact, it can only be measured. The cellular inflammation levels in the blood decide the state of future wellness. It can be measured by detecting the levels of two fatty acids AA and EPA in the body. The higher are the levels of cellular inflammation; more are the chances of developing chronic disease.
How to Maintain AA EPA Ratio?
Daily intake of 2.5 grams of DHA and EPA for a long duration of time results in balancing the AA EPA ratio and bringing it down to the appropriate range. However, before turning to a specific diet, it is important to go for AA EPA Testing to ensure the levels of AA/EPA in the body.
Since the AA EPA ratio is the consecutive factor associated with one’s diet, no drugs can maintain or change this ratio. However, regular intake of Omega 3 fatty acids components rich in EPA can result in lowering down this ratio, maintaining a perfect balance.
When EPA content is increased in the blood, AA/ EPA ratio is reduced and this can be done by following a strict diet plan that includes an anti-inflammatory diet. The diet based on anti-inflammatory rich components is known as the Zone Diet, which is designed for reducing the increasing levels of Omega 6 fatty acids and insulin. This reduces the levels of AA in long term.
What are Arachidonic and Palmitic Acids?
Arachidonic acid is another important Omega fats required by the body to function well. It is vital for the liver, brain, and other organs of the body and can be produced by consuming a sufficient amount of linoleic acid on regular basis. Linoleic acid is highly available in vegetable oil and is broken into GLA, i.e. Gamma Linolenic Acid that further converts to arachidonic acid.
Palmitic acid, also known as hexadecanoic acid is one of the most common saturated fatty acids found abundantly in plants, animals, and microorganisms. It is present in the fruit of the oil palms and can also be found in butter, cheese, dairy products, and meats. The higher the percentage of palmitic acid, the more critical the health issues will be. It is important to maintain the Palmitic Acid index between 17% and 21% for optimal health.