Omega-3 fatty acids in clinical practice: Beyond triglyceride-lowering role

ABSTRACT

Omega-3 fatty acids, used alone or combined with other nutraceuticals, are among the most popular dietary supplements. In the era of digital health and social media, consumers are increasingly using vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, and other supplements. With continuing expansion, the global nutraceutical market is expected to reach 150–160 billion USD by 2023. Despite the popularity of omega-3 supplementation, clinical evidence supporting its benefits remains limited. Substantial data support the therapeutic benefits of fatty acids (omega-3), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), in cardiovascular diseases and hypertriglyceridemia. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, primarily EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have well-established cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Research has highlighted their roles in modulating endothelial function, oxidative stress, and cellular membrane dynamics, which are of particular relevance for nephrologists because cardiovascular and renal risk factors often overlap in chronic kidney disease. This review summarizes current insights into the biological actions of EPA and DHA and their pharmacological properties, clinical implications, and roles in renoprotection and hemostatic regulation.