Is the conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA efficient?

• A. Yes, it is highly efficient.
• B. It does not occur.
• C. It only occurs in the presence of EPA.
• D. No, it is inefficient.

Answer: (D)

The body can convert ALA into EPA and DHA, but it does so very slowly. This conversion relies on desaturase and elongase enzymes and is limited by competition with other fatty acid pathways (notably omega-6). As a result, only a small fraction of dietary ALA becomes EPA, and even less becomes DHA, and the rate varies between individuals. Because of this inefficiency, relying on ALA to supply EPA and DHA often doesn’t meet physiological needs, so obtaining EPA and DHA directly from fish, seafood, or algae-based sources is recommended.