What Is The Difference Between Omega 3 & Salmon Oil?

It's not difficult to understand the confusion over omega-3 and salmon oil, because they have a lot in common. One is a component of the other, but they are not the same thing. Omega-3 is a term you may hear often when discussing a balanced diet or nutritional needs. Learning the importance of some fatty acids in your food will point out the differences and the benefits of salmon oil and how omega-3 fits into that formula.

Fatty Acids

Omega-3 is one of the essential fatty acids you need for a healthy diet. Fatty acids help reduce inflammation that damages cardiac tissue. Increasing omega-3 in your diet is a natural way to lower cholesterol, fight stroke and improve the immune system. Omega-3 is what nutritionists refer to as a heart-healthy fat. Salmon contains a high amount of omega-3. For this reason, some may connect the oil from salmon to this essential fatty acid.

Fish

You can get omega-3 from salmon, tuna and herring. Most forms of saltwater fish have at least a small amount of omega-3, according to MayoClinic.com. People at risk for heart disease may be encouraged to eat at least two servings of fish each week to lower cholesterol and improve heart health. Salmon is one of the leading carriers of omega-3 fatty acids.

Salmon Oil Supplements

People who prefer not to eat fish may look to supplements, such as salmon oil, to get the necessary omega-3. Some supplements contain oil from fish species and have addition nutritional value. Medline Plus reports that fish oil may be combined with vitamins E, A, B-1, B-2, B-3, C and D. If you want to take a salmon or fish oil supplement, talk to your doctor to ensure it will not interfere with other medication.

Expert Insight

Comparing omega-3 to salmon oil is like comparing apples and oranges. Omega-3 is a fatty acid and a component of the oil. Salmon oil is the fatty portion of the fish. By increasing the amount of salmon oil in your diet, you increase your intake of omega-3. However, you can also do that without salmon oil. Fatty fish are the key to essential fatty acids. Fatty fish include salmon, mackerel, herring and halibut.