#83 – Bill Harris, Ph.D.: Omega-3 fatty acids

Summary

This podcast episode discusses the different types of fatty acids and their impact on our health. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical structure and properties of polyunsaturated fats, specifically omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They also discuss the benefits of EPA and DHA, two principal omega-3s, and the importance of consuming them through fish consumption or supplements. The speaker challenges the idea that omega-6 fatty acids are bad for health and suggests that focusing on increasing EPA and DHA intake may be more beneficial.

The podcast also discusses the health benefits of EPA, DHA, and arachidonic acid, which are end-products of the omega-3 and omega-6 pathways. The speaker emphasizes the importance of measuring omega-3 status in patients and encourages doctors to prescribe high-quality pharma-grade products or reputable supplement companies. Additionally, the podcast delves into the neuroprotective benefits of DHA and EPA and the importance of getting both through fish consumption.

The conversation also covers the improvement in heart rate variability and reduction in inflammatory cytokines as markers of autonomic nervous system control of the heart. The study focuses on people with hypertriglyceridemia, and the inclusion criteria are not for people at risk for pancreatitis. The podcast also explores how arachidonic acid got a bad reputation in the past due to the P to S ratio mentality.

Overall, the podcast aims to educate listeners on the confusing but important topic of fats and their different chemical families. The speaker emphasizes the importance of looking at blood levels of fatty acids and their association with disease risk. They believe that trust is important and they don't want to advocate for something they don't believe in, which is why they have created a subscriber model for their audience instead of running ads on their podcast.