Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Also known as: Omega-3s
A family of polyunsaturated fats, found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseed, linked to heart and brain health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are a category of essential polyunsaturated fats, meaning the body cannot produce them and they must come from food. The three main types are ALA (plant-based, from flaxseed and walnuts), and EPA and DHA (mainly from fatty fish), which are the forms most directly linked to cardiovascular and brain health benefits.
In Practice
A Mediterranean-style diet naturally includes omega-3 sources like salmon, sardines, and walnuts a few times a week, which is one reason it's associated with favorable cardiovascular outcomes.
Worth Knowing
ALA (the plant-based form) converts to EPA and DHA in the body only inefficiently. People eating little or no fish may want to include algae-based EPA/DHA sources rather than relying on ALA alone.