Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid. The human body does not synthesize omega-3 fatty acids, so humans must obtain these essential fatty acids through dietary consumption.
Eicosa-pentaenoic (EPA), docosahexaenoic (DHA) and alpha-linolenic (ALA) acids are the most common type of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are found naturally in fish and in plant sources such as flax. In an effort to expand consumer selection of these healthful fatty acids, omega-3 enriched eggs are now available. Omega-3 enriched eggs are produced by feeding egg-laying hens diets enriched with flax seeds. Omega-3-enriched eggs can provide a healthful alternative for egg-lovers, especially those consumers with hypercholesterolemia and other heart-health issues.
Health Benefits
Omega-3 fatty acids offer cardio-protective effects ranging from lowering blood pressure to decreasing triglyceride levels. Overall, omega-3 fatty acids improve heart health and lower the risk for heart attacks, blood clots and inflammation. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends all persons eat omega-3 fatty acids at least twice per week (preferably from fish sources). In persons with coronary heart disease, AHA recommends daily consumption of a combination of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA (totaling 1g), and 2 to 4g in persons who need to lower triglycerides. While EPA and DHA in fish are the recommended dietary forms of omega-3 fatty acids, omega-3 enriched eggs provide α-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA might offer similar health benefits to EPA and DHA found in fish.
Composition
Omega-3 enriched or not, eggs provide an excellent source of protein, vitamin D, iron and B12. Omega-3-enriched eggs, however, provide anywhere from 100mg to more than 600mg of omega-3 fatty acids versus a non-enriched egg which provides about 30mg of omega-3 fatty acids per egg. Omega-3-enriched eggs also provide about 1/3 less saturated fat and slightly less cholesterol than non-enriched eggs. Omega-3-enriched eggs might be a smarter choice for persons with high cholesterol and/or heart disease because of the cardio-protective effects of omega-3 fatty acids.
Dietary Alternative
Omega-3 fatty acids can be gotten from the diet alone or through supplements such as fish oil capsules. Many people do not like taking supplements, but might be hesistant to add fish to their diet due to concerns about methyl-mercury levels in some fish. Others simply prefer dietary diversity. Omega-3-enriched eggs provide another option for adding this important nutrient to the diet.
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