Dietary Reference Intake of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids for Koreans

Abstract

This paper examines the process and evidence used to create the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for Koreans. ALA (18:3n3) is an essential fatty acid, and EPA and DHA are known to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease risk and reduction of triglyceride levels. Various international organizations have suggested dietary recommendations for n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including ALA, EPA, and DHA. A DRI for Koreans was established for the first time in 2020, specifically for the adequate intake (AI) of ALA and EPA + DHA. This recommendation was based on the average intake of ALA and EPA + DHA from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2017. For Korean infants, the AI of ALA and DHA was based on the fatty acid composition of maternal milk. Estimated average requirement and a tolerable upper intake level have not been set for n-3 PUFA due to insufficient evidence. In addition, the intake level of n-3 PUFA for prevention of chronic disease has also not been determined. Future studies and randomized controlled trials are required to establish the UL and to define the level for disease prevention.