Do polyunsaturated fatty acids behave like an endogenous “polypill”?

SummaryLowering plasma low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), blood pressure, homocysteine, and preventing platelet aggregation using a combination of a statin, three blood pressure lowering drugs such as a thiazide, a β blocker, and an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor each at half standard dose; folic acid; and aspirin – called as polypill – was estimated to reduce cardiovascular events by ∼80%. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) and their long-chain metabolites and other products prevent platelet aggregation, lower blood pressure, reduce LDL-C, and ameliorate the adverse actions of homocysteine. Thus, EFAs and their metabolites show all the actions expected of the “polypill”. Unlike the proposed “polypill”, EFAs are endogenous molecules, have no significant side effects, can be taken orally for long periods of time even by pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children; and have been shown to reduce the incidence cardiovascular diseases. I propose that a rational combination of ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids is as beneficial as that of the “polypill”; and may even show additional benefit in the prevention of depression, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, and enhance cognitive function.