Omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients that your body needs to maintain health. They are actually used as energy to keep organs like your heart and lungs functioning properly. Some types of Omega-3s are DHA, EPA, and ALA. DHA is critical for your heart to function and is extremely important in children’s brain development. EPA is another critical omega-3 that helps maintain heart health, cognitive function, and even is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. ALA is most common fatty acid, and is often converted into EPA and DHA in your body.
Foods that are High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
One of the easiest ways to add Omega-3 fatty acids to your system is through your diet. The most common foods to look for in increasing your Omega-3 intake is adding oily, fatty fish to your diet. Examples of this include salmon, tuna, herring, and mackerel. You can also add delicious tinned fish options like sardines and anchovies. Another excellent way to get Omega-3s into your system is by adding nuts and seeds, as well as their oils, such as walnuts, flax/flax seed oil, and chia seeds.
ALA in particular is found in most plant foods such as kale, spinach, and hemp. These are excellent options for vegetarians and vegans who don’t eat fish.
What to Look for in Your Supplements
The American Heart Association recommends that anyone with coronary heart disease be sure to take Omega-3 supplements with EPA & DHA daily. Fish oil is the most common, but there are many other ways to supplement Omega-3 such as soft gels, flax oils, and even algae supplements!
What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
