What Does Omega 3 Mean?

There are several types of fatty acids found in the human body. Omega 3 fatty acids represent a category of essential fatty acids, or ones that the body does not manufacture.

Function

Omega 3 fatty acids settle primarily in the brain and aid in brain development and function.

Types

The three types of omega 3 fatty acids are alpha-linoleic (ALA), docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA).

Benefits

Omega 3 fatty acids may be used to combat a variety of diseases and conditions including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, arthritis and depression.

Food Sources

Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish, certain marine life, plants and oils.

Eating Recommendations

The American Heart Association recommends that you eat fish twice weekly, in addition to tofu, soybeans, canola oil, flaxseed oil and walnut oil, to raise omega 3 levels.

References

Article reviewed by MER Last updated on: Oct 22, 2009

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