NANP Board Practice Exam 2025 - Free NANP Board Practice Questions and Study Guide

The nutrient that helps decrease platelet aggregation, promotes anti-inflammatory eicosanoids, and requires careful sourcing to ensure it is free from heavy metals in supplemental form is omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and certain plant oils, have well-documented effects on cardiovascular health, including reducing inflammation and improving blood flow by reducing platelet aggregation. They also play a key role in the production of eicosanoids, which are signaling molecules that mediate inflammation and other bodily functions.

When considering supplementation, it is important for omega-3 fatty acids to be sourced from high-quality, purified products to prevent contamination with heavy metals, which can be a risk if the fish or sources from which they are derived are not properly processed or tested. This care in sourcing is essential for ensuring that the benefits of the omega-3 fatty acids are maximized without the risk of harmful contaminants.

While fiber, protein, and vitamin C contribute to overall health, they do not specifically address the anti-inflammatory effects or the need for heavy metal testing in the same context as omega-3 fatty acids.