Arachidonic acid
Arachidonic acid (AA) is a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that is essential for the human body. It is found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, as well as in some plant-based sources such as nuts and seeds. AA plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including inflammation, blood clotting, and cell growth.
Benefits of Arachidonic Acid
Arachidonic acid has been shown to have several health benefits. It helps to regulate the immune system and promotes the growth and repair of tissues. AA also plays a role in brain function and development. A meta-analysis study demonstrated a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events by increasing polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) intake.
Case Studies Regarding the Benefits of Arachidonic Acid
A systematic review of the effects of increasing arachidonic acid intake on PUFA status, metabolism, and health-related outcomes in humans suggests no adverse effects in adults of increased ARA intake up to at least 1000–1500 mg/d on blood lipids, platelet. Another study showed that dietary arachidonic acid supplementation dose-dependently increases the concentration of AA in plasma phospholipids and enhances exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy.
There is currently insufficient evidence to recommend an ideal dose of arachidonic acid supplementation. However, anecdotally it is used at the dosage of around 2,000 mg taken 45 minutes before a workout. It should also be noted that for persons with chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel diseases, that the ideal dose of arachidonic acid may actually be a dietary restriction thereof.
Arachidonic acid supplementation does not seem to cause any side effects or adverse events. However, it is important to note that excessive intake of AA can lead to an increase in inflammation and may contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Sources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6052655/
- https://supplements.selfdecode.com/blog/arachidonic-acid/
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/systematic-review-of-the-effects-of-increasing-arachidonic-acid-intake-on-pufa-status-metabolism-and-healthrelated-outcomes-in-humans/6A0167CBF8EC148B4855C25D002E4AC4
- https://examine.com/supplements/arachidonic-acid/
- https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/21/12029
- https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/138/11/2190/4670077
