Omega-3 - Essential Fatty Acids for Health

Discover the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.
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Omega-3 Benefits | Fatty Acids In Diet | Fish Oil Supplements | Omega-3 Sources | Heart-healthy Fatty Acids | Brain Function Support
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Omega-3 FAQ


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What are omega-3s & why are they important?

Omega-3s are a family of fats that are important for your health. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is an essential dietary fat. You need ALA to make other omega-3 fats called long-chain (LCN-3). Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are LCN-3 fats. ALA makes these in your body. This happens slowly and only small amounts are formed.

What are omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of three important types of fat: ALA, DHA, and EPA. Getting enough of each type may help keep your retinas, brain, and other parts of your body in healthy function. Omega-3 fatty acids are important fats that you must get from your diet. However, most people don’t know what they are.

What are the different types of omega-3s?

There are three types of omega-3s; DHA, EPA, and ALA. Potential health benefits of omega-3s include protecting heart health, brain function, eye health, and lowering the risk of some chronic diseases. Food sources of omega-3s include fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseed, and algae. Dietary supplements are available to help meet omega-3 needs.

What is the omega-3 index?

The omega-3 index proposed by Harris and von Schacky reflects the content of EPA plus DHA in erythrocyte membranes expressed as a percentage of total erythrocyte fatty acids [ 20, 21 ]. This index can be used as a surrogate for assessing tissue levels of EPA plus DHA [ 16, 22, 23 ].

Omega-3 References

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