Amanda Gerson Career Portfolio

Dietary Supplement Research Paper

NFSC 345: Diet Supplements & Function Foods

Skill Area: Clinical Nutrition

Assignment Title: Omega-3 supplements, including EPA and DHA for Cardioprotection

 What I learned: This assignment gave me a deeper understanding of the links between EPA and DHA with cardiovascular disease risk. Also, I learned the biological functions, the proposed mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects towards coronary heart disease, and the difference between supplementation versus consuming fatty fish at the recommended amount per week in relation to heart disease risk. 

Reflection of the assignment: This assignment provided me with a research opportunity to take a deeper look into the supplement fish oil. There are multiple factors that affect cardiovascular disease risk such as genetics, environment or lifestyle. However, although omega-3 fatty acids have been shown in epidemiological and clinical trials to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease, it is important to consider all the contributing factors. This assignment proved that although research may say one thing, it is crucial to look deep into other factors such as stage of cardiovascular disease, other

 Reflection to the profession: The data found in this review of the research surrounding EPA and DHA support the dietary guidelines which recommend at least two servings of fatty fish per week. In addition, the data supports the inclusion of vegetable oils and food sources high in omega-3 fatty acids in a healthy diet for the general population. However, there are numerous claims surrounding omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular protection so it is important to explain the current evidence to clients.