Base is used broadly in both literal and figurative contexts: the wide base of the pyramid; a party seeking to expand its power base. Basis is used in a nonphysical sense: Healthy scepticism is the basis of all accurate observation (Arthur Conan Doyle).
Omega-3 fats also lower blood pressure and heart rate, improve blood vessel function, and, at higher doses, lower triglycerides and may ease inflammation, which plays a role in the development of atherosclerosis. Several large trials have evaluated the effect of fish or fish oils on heart disease.
A role for vitamin D in inflammation is supported by studies in laboratory animals. In particular, mice lacking the vitamin D receptor or the vitamin D activating enzyme, 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-1-hydroxylase, have increased susceptibility to inflammation, especially inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract (61-63).