- Why Should we have to take EPA and DHA, if our biochemistry can make EPA and DHA from the Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA) we find in our (improved) diet or in supplements?
The synthesis of EPA and DHA from ALA occurs through the action of two type of enzymes: the desaturase
enzymes and the elongation enzymes The desaturase enzymes are the rate limiting factor in the synthesis of EPA and DHA There is strong competition between fatty acids for the desaturase enzymes Saturated fatty acids have a higher affinity for the desaturase enzymes Some people have problems with their desaturase enzyme function