Mega GLA 300 mg., 60 softgels

Everyone knows that too much of the wrong kinds of dietary fats can be dangerous. On the other hand, the obsession with eating reduced fat meals has created a serious deficiency in the consumption of those fatty acids that are essential to life and good health. While most people continue to obtain sufficient amounts of the omega-6 fatty acids which are plentiful in a wide range of foods, the fact is, few people obtain enough dietary omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acids which are beneficial for cardiovascular problems, and even fewer obtain enough dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids to prevent the wide range of degenerative diseases.

While omega-6 fatty acids are generally well supplied by good diets, not all omega-6 EPAs are of equal benefit. GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) is rapidly converted to dihomogamma-linolenic acid, the immediate precursor of prostaglandin PGE1 which is a potent anti-inflammatory agent.

Other benefits of GLA include:

Reduction of high blood pressure through blood vessel dilation

Reduction of the risk of heart attack and stroke though decrease of abnormal blood clotting

Reduction in autoimmune dysfunction, the underlying cause of rheumatoid arthritis

Prevention and possible reversal of some cancers through inhibition of abnormal cell proliferation

Elimination of common skin disorders such as eczema

Slowing of some aspects of normal aging through a mechanism similar to that of calorie restriction

Caution:

GLA, EPA and DHA have been shown to inhibit abnormal clotting within blood vessels (thrombosis). Most ischemic heart attacks and strokes are caused by abnormal arterial blood clots, so consuming these essential fatty acids may help protect against these types of cardiovascular diseases.

Those taking anticoagulant drugs like Coumadin (warfarin) should inform their doctor that they are taking GLA, EPA, or DHA supplements, as the physician may want to adjust the dose of anticoagulant medication based on blood tests that measure coagulation factors such as prothrombin (PT).

Since GLA, EPA, and DHA interfere with blood clotting, those who suffer from any type of hemorrhagic disease related to excessive bleeding or blood vessel leakage should consult their physician before supplementing these fatty acids.

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania reported that high doses of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) were effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis patients. An earlier study by the same group had shown that administration of 1100 mg of GLA per day from borage seed oil reduced synovitis in six of seven patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

The borage seed oil in these capsules is cold pressed and is free from pesticides and herbicides. It is a natural product and the GLA content may vary from 275 mg to 312 mg.

1 softgel contains:

Borage (Borago officinalis) seed oil 1300 mg supplying gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) 300 mg

Calories 12

Total fat 1.3 g

Saturated fat 0.25 g

Monounsaturated fat 0.25 g

Polyunsaturated fat 0.8 g

Other ingredients: gelatin, glycerin, and water.

Dosage and use

1-2 softgels daily are suggested for healthy people.

For rheumatoid arthritis patients, 5 capsules of GLA daily are recommended.

Osteoarthritis patients may also benefit from using GLA.

This product is effectively utilized when taken with meals, but not with fiber supplements.

Product should be refrigerated.

Warning: These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet or exercise program. Some of these products are not recommended for individuals under the age of 18.

This page was last modified on Wednesday July 30, 2008