Omega 3 fatty acid

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Omega 3 fatty acids or ω-3 are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids, meaning they can't be made in the body and must come from food.[1]. Omega 3 is necessary for a healthy metabolism. Dietary sources of omega 3 fatty acids include certain plant oils, marine oils such as algal (algae) and fish oils.[2]

Types[edit | edit source]

The types of omega 3 fatty acids essential for the human body are:

  1. Alpha linolenic acid (ALA), found mainly in plants including flaxseed oil (linseed oil), rapeseed oil, certain nuts, pumpkin seeds, soybean products, and green leafy vegetables
  2. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which the body can make from ALA, and also found in some algal oils, and fish oils
  3. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which the body can make from ALA, and also found in algal oils, and fish oils[3][4]

Fish oil[edit | edit source]

Algal oil[edit | edit source]

An oil made from algae containing omega 3 fatty acids.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Theory[edit | edit source]

Evidence[edit | edit source]

Risks and side effects[edit | edit source]

Costs and availability[edit | edit source]

Omega 3 is easily available from dietary sources or as a nutritional supplement.[4] It is typically sold as oil in capsules, or in larger bottles of oil which are intended to be consumed cold.

See also[edit | edit source]

Learn more[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. "Omega-3 Fatty Acids: An Essential Contribution". Harvard Health. September 18, 2012. Retrieved March 14, 2021.
  2. Marine Oils. Bethesda, MD: National Library of Medicine. 2006. PMID 30000958.
  3. British Dietetic Association. "Omega-3". bda.uk.com. Retrieved March 14, 2021.
  4. 4.0 4.1 "Omega-3 Fatty Acids". Office of Dietary Supplements. Retrieved March 14, 2021.