The Basics

• Omega-3 fatty acids are found in cold-water fish, shellfish, algae oils, along with various plant and nut oils

• There two long-chain omega-3 fatty acids are:

– EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

– DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)

• The short-chain omega-3 fatty acid, ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is a less potent form

Overall Health Benefits

• Cardiovascular health

• Neurological health

• Eye and vision health

• Joint health

• Normal inflammation process

DHA Specifics

• Supports integrity of the neuron’s membranes

• Required for proper visual and neurological development along with brain development during pregnancy

• Needed for optimal brain function from infant to adult

• Insufficient DHA may negatively affect mood and memory

EPA Specifics

• Reduces cellular inflammation

• Benefits high blood pressure

• Controls neuro-inflammation

• Superior to DHA for depression and ADHD

• Supports prevention of LDL oxidation

• May benefit arthritis

ALA Specifics

• Source of energy

• Precursor for long-chain omega-3 fatty acids but doesn’t efficiently convert to EPA and DHA

• Doesn’t appear to benefit brain or retinal development or promote cardiovascular health

Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• DHA

– Certain marine algae oils

– Tuna, salmon, mackerel, halibut, other fatty fish

• EPA

– Fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, halibut, mackerel

• ALA

– Soybean oil, walnuts, olive oil, and flaxseeds

• Fish oil supplements