Omega-3 FAQs - Understanding Omega-3 and Its Benefits

Question #1 - What is the '3' for in Omega-3?

Omega-3 is made up of 3 essential fatty acids - ALA, DHA, and EPA. ALA is the acronym for Alpha-linolenic acid. DHA is the acronym for Docosahexaenoic acid, and EPA is the acronym for Eicosapentaenoic acid.

Question #2 - What are essential fatty acids?

Essential fatty acids are another name for Omega-3.

Question #3 - Why do we need Omega-3?

We need Omega-3 for our bodies to work and function normally. Your body can't produce these essential fatty acids so you must get them from other sources.

Question #4 - How can I get Omega-3?

You can get the amount of Omega-3 your body needs to function properly through foods or fish oil supplements.

Question #5 - What foods have Omega-3 in them?

Fish and seafood are your best sources of Omega-3. Tuna, wild-caught salmon, halibut, herring, shrimp, Chinook, snapper, anchovies, mackerel, lake trout, and sardines are all high in the essential fatty acids you need. If you don't like fish, you can get Omega-3 through plant sources like flaxseed, walnuts, soybeans, olive oil, tofu, winter squash.

If you prefer to get your Omega-3 the quick and easy way, you can take a fish oil supplement that's high in Omega-3.

Question #6 - How much fish do I have to eat to get the right amount of Omega-3?

Experts recommend eating a serving of fish two to three times every week.

Question #7 - How much Omega-3 should I take in a supplement?

Doctors recommend 1 gram per day. Higher doses can cause thinning of the blood and cause bleeding problems. Never take Omega-3 supplements if you're on blood-thinning medication or any type of prescription drug without first talking to your doctor.

Question #8 - What are the health benefits of Omega-3?

The health benefits of taking Omega-3 is long. Here is a partial list that has scientific testing as proof:

Lowers Blood Pressure
Lowers Cholesterol level and Triglyceride levels by 20% to 50%
Reduces the overall risk of heart disease
Reduces the stiffness and joint pain from rheumatoid arthritis
Relieves the symptoms of depression
Relieves the symptoms of bipolar disorder
Improves bone density and lowers the risk of osteoporosis
Improves lung function and gives relief for asthma
Reduces the symptoms of ADHD in school-age children
Possibly helps reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia

These are just a few of the benefits of Omega-3. Scientists and researchers are performing many more studies about the benefits of Omega-3.

Question #9 - Is it safe to eat fish for Omega-3s?

Not all fish is safe to eat. Some fish, like tilefish, shark, and swordfish have high levels of PCBs, mercury, and other toxins. When possible, it's best to eat wild-caught fish. Farm-raised fish have high levels of contaminants.

Question #10 - What about other sources of Omega-3?

Animals that are free-range have much higher levels of Omega-3 than typical grain-fed animals. Look for eggs that are high in Omega-3 from free-range chickens. Beef from free-range cows is also becoming more available too.