In two small double blind trials EicosaPentaenoic Acid (EPA) reversed the progression of HD patients.(1) (2) All patients not taking EPA declined. The theraputic dose of EPA used in the trials was 2 grams. EPA is one of the Neuro Protective Lipids (NPLs) found in cold water fish. NPLs may be more effective in treating HD if the HDL diet guidelines are followed.
Jerry Lampson 10-May-01, updated 23-Jan-02
| HDL Ranked | Trade Name | Description | Comments | caps or paks for 2 grams of EPA | *Estimated Cost/day (US) |
| 1 | LAX-101 | 97% pure EPA used in the trials | Currently in phase 3 trials. | High, expected to be approved for third party payment | |
| 2 | Epadale | Pure EPA used in Japan | May be LAX-101 by another name. Probably available by prescription if your doctor is willing to jump through the import hoops. | ||
| 3 | Coromega | Concentrated EPA, DHA, distilled fish oil | Food supplement. Processed for purity. No gelatin capsule, packaged in foil to protect from rancidity . No fish taste. Delicious to my taste. | 6 foil paks | $4.00/day |
| 4 | OmegaBrite | Concentrated EPA, DHA, distilled fish oil | Food supplement. Processed for purity. Packaged in gelatin capsules, individually protected by foil. | 6 caps | $2.00/day |
| 5 | Various, generic | EPA, DHA concentrated fish oil | Food supplement. Packaged in gelatin capsules. Usually has fishy taste. A gel cap is NOT impervious to oxygen, and the contents will start to oxidize and start to go rancid once exposed to air. Store in the fridge to help keep freshness. Available from Rite-Aid, Wal-Mart, etc. Look for a 'freshness guaranteed date'. | 12 caps | $1.70/day |
LNA from flax, chia and hemp seeds can be converted to EPA by our bodies. About 80% of the population lacks the cofactors necessary to make a possible 2.7% conversion of LNA to EPA. Some folks are genetically unable to make the conversion. HD may block conversion. If you take LNA, find a fresh refrigerated source. Fresh flax seed oil has a sweet nutty taste. More
Sardines are a rich source of EPA. 100 grams of good sardines costs about $2.00. They could have over 10 grams EPA, an EPA bargain. The actual EPA assay might depend on what the little guys had to eat before being harvested. Check the product if you like sardines. Look for raw sardines.