|
Continued from page 2.
Following ovulation, there is shift of fatty acid balance in the phospholipids of the cell membranes. (43) Prior to menstruation, excessive amounts of arachidonic acid are released, and an increase in prostaglandins and leukotrienes (LTs) is triggered in the uterus. The inflammatory response initiated by the PGs and LTs results in vasoconstriction, myometrial contractions, and ischemia that cause pain; gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and bloating; and headaches. (43) Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids mediates the production of less potent PGs and LTs, resulting in a reduction in the severity of myometrial contractions and uterine vasoconstriction, a decrease in the formation of inflammatory mediators, and subsequently reduced ischemia and improved blood flow. (41-43)
The results of the present study indicate that Neptune Krill Oil has statistically significant and clinically marked benefits against the inflammatory dysmenorrhea symptom complex as well as on the emotional symptomatology that characterizes premenstrual syndrome (intra-group difference CI 95%). When compared to omega-3 fish oil, the effect of NKO was comparable with respect to weight gain, abdominal pain, swelling, and bloating (inter-group variance ( CI 95%). NKO was shown to be significantly more effective than fish oil for the management of all emotional symptoms of PMS ( CI 95%), breast tenderness ( CI 95%), and joint pain ( CI 95%).
Evidence has shown that phospholipids of the brain have an especially high content of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acid DHA, and that these phospholipid species are centrally involved in brain function. (44-46) The effectiveness of NKO on emotional menstrual symptoms may thus be based on potential modulating effects on neurotransmitters that affect emotional and psychological symptoms. The synergistic effects of omega-3 fatty acids and phospholipids are specific to NKO since the solvent-based cold extraction process used to produce this oil maintains the integrity of the phospholipids. Processes for fish oil extraction can involve conditions that irrevocably damage certain components like phospholipids.
Conclusion
The final results of the present study suggest within a high level of confidence that Neptune Krill Oil can significantly reduce the physical and emotional symptoms related to premenstrual syndrome, and is significantly more effective for the management of dysmenorrhea and emotional premenstrual symptoms than fish oil. NKO has a unique biomolecular profile of phospholipids, omega-3 fatty acids, and diverse antioxidants that surpasses the usual fish oil profile. The association between phospholipids and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids highly facilitates the passage of fatty acid molecules through the intestinal wall, increasing their bioavailability, and ultimately improving the omega-3:omega-6 ratio. Furthermore, phospholipid molecules play a major role in membrane fluidity, which may in turn play an active role in the management of emotional symptoms. Findings from this trial raise the possibility that Neptune Krill Oil has a positive benefit to risk profile for PMS. (47)
Table 1. Diagnostic Criteria for PMS
A. In most menstrual cycles during the past year, symptoms occurred
during the last week of the luteal phase and remitted within a few
days after the onset of the follicular phase. In menstruating females,
these phases correspond to the week before, and a few days after, the
onset of menses. (In non-menstruating females who have had a
hysterectomy, the timing of luteal and follicular phase may require
measurement of circulating reproductive hormones.)
B. At least five of the following symptoms have been present for most
of the time during each symptomatic late luteal phase, at least one
of the symptoms being either (1), (2), (3), or (4):
1. marked affective lability, e.g., feeling suddenly sad, tearful,
irritable, or angry;
2. persistent and marked anger or irritability;
3. marked anxiety, tension, feelings of being "keyed up" or "on edge;"
4. decreased interest in usual activities, e.g., work, friends,
hobbies;
5. easy fatigability or marked lack of energy;
6. subjective sense of difficulty in concentrating;
7. marked change in appetite, overeating, or specific food cravings;
8. hypersomnia or insomnia;
9. other physical symptoms, such as breast tenderness or swelling,
headaches, joint or muscle pain, a sensation of "bloating," weight
gain.
C. The disturbance seriously interferes with work or with usual social
activities or relationships with others.
D. The disturbance is not merely an exacerbation of the symptoms of
another disorder, such as major depression, panic disorder, dysthymia,
or a personality disorder.
Criteria A, B, C, and D are confirmed by prospective daily self-rating
during at least two symptomatic cycles.
|
|
