One of the main reasons why fish is so healthy is because many types of fish, such as salmon and mackerel, contain omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are components of food that, according to the American Heart Association, can reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. Though the ideal daily dose for fatty acids is not known, there are many different types, and it is important to eat some of each type of unsaturated fatty acid every week.
Polyunsaturated Fats
Polyunsaturated fats are a healthy type of unsaturated fat which have many different chemical bonds and are liquid at room temperature. Omega 3 fatty acids are simply one type of polyunsaturated fat. Polyunsaturated fats, according to the Mayo Clinic, protect the heart and may also help decrease blood pressure levels. Polyunsaturated fats are present in vegetable oils, nuts and seeds, in addition to fish.
Monounsaturated Fats
Monounsaturated fats are healthy like polyunsaturated fats, though they have a different chemical structure. Monounsaturated fats are also naturally liquid at room temperature though they are eaten in foods like olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds. According to the American Heart Association, monounsaturated fats can help to prevent cardiovascular disease.
EPA
Eicosapentaenoic acid is the full name for EPA, which is a healthy type of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. It is found in fish such as tuna and mackerel. Since EPA is known to aid in brain development, it is often supplemented in baby formulas.
DHA
Docosahexaenoic acid is another omega 3 fatty acid which is also most often eaten in fish and seafood. According to the National Association for Infant Food Manufacturers, DHA is a long-chain fatty acid which can help children with chronic health disorders when supplemented into their diets.
ALA
Alpha-linolenic acid, also called ALA, can become an omega 3 fatty acid in the body when eaten, according to the Mayo Clinic. ALA is found in plant foods like flax seeds, walnuts, tofu and canola oil. To get even more health benefits, eat food with ALA at the same time as an omega 3 acid; for example, sauté fish in canola oil.
Arachidonic Acid
Arachidonic acid is a long chain fatty acid which is often used in supplements. According to the National Association for Infant Food Manufacturers, arachidonic acid is utilized extensively by the brain, and supplementing with it can improve the symptoms of children with disorders such as Phenylketonuria (PKU) and ADHD.
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