What is EPA and its benefits?

EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that has significant benefits for mental and physical health. According to Andrew Huberman, EPA can be as effective as certain antidepressants in treating depression when taken in dosages around 1000 milligrams per day. It can also reduce the required doses of SSRIs, potentially reducing their side effects 1.

Further benefits of EPA include improvements in cardiovascular health, with a dose-dependent relation suggesting that each gram of EPA ingested leads to a 9% improvement in cardiovascular health. However, for mood improvements and combating depression, the relationship is less clear in terms of dosage beyond the threshold of 1000 mg 1.

To sum up, EPA is effective in reducing inflammation, alleviating symptoms of depression, and might have cardiovascular benefits. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting new supplements, especially at high dosages.