In June 2008, the Technical Committee on Dietary Lipids of the International Life Sciences Institute North America sponsored a 2-day workshop to review research data on eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids for heart benefits, cancer, and cognitive decline. Previously in 2002, the Institute of Medicine concluded there was insufficient evidence available to define Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for EPA and DHA. Since then, significant research data has emerged meriting a reassessment for DRI recommendations. The workshop concluded “consistent evidence from multiple research paradigms demonstrates a clear, inverse relationship between EPA+DHA intake and risk of fatal (and possibly nonfatal) coronary heart disease, providing evidence that supports a nutritionally achievable DRI for EPA+DHA between 250 and 500 mg/d.”
Researchers also note that evidence of beneficial effects of EPA+DHA for cognitive health is emerging. Epidemiological data suggests positive benefits from eating one fish meal per week on neurodegenerative diseases.
The article can be located in The Journal of Nutrition and Nutraingredients.com. Harris, W., et al. Towards establishing dietary reference intakes for eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids. Journal of Nutrition. 139(4): 804S-819S, 2009.