You probably know at least one person who takes fish oil to boost their omega-3s, which are said to benefit heart, eye and cognitive health. But what exactly are omega-3s? In addition to the potential benefits, it's important to consider side effects and whether omega-3s are right for your body. You should also note that omega-3s are present in many foods you may have in your pantry or fridge right now, so supplements may not be necessary unless your doctor recommends them.
What are omega-3 fatty acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fat, are an essential part of the human diet. Unlike other fats that the body is capable of synthesizing (called non-essential fatty acids), omega-3s can't be made from scratch. They're vital for various bodily processes, such as making hormones for blood clotting, artery contraction and relaxation, and genetic functions. In other words, we need omega-3s, and we can only get them from food or supplements. There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids:
Eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA
Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA
Alpha-linolenic acid, or ALA
Adding omega-3s to your diet
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