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Omega-3 Fats: An Essential Component of Health
November 7, 2023 Marketing Team

Omega-3 Fats: An Essential Component of Health

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your health, and they come in various forms. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a foundational omega-3 fat that your body uses to produce long-chain omega-3s (LCN-3), including Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

Sources of Omega-3 Fats

Understanding where to find these essential fats is crucial for a healthy diet.

ALPHA-LINOLENIC ACID (ALA)

ALA is an essential dietary fat that serves as the precursor to other omega-3 fats.

  • ALA is crucial for the body to produce long-chain omega-3s, such as EPA and DHA.
  • ALA can be found in nuts, seeds, and their oils, with walnuts, flaxseeds, and rapeseed oil being notable sources.

EICOSAPENTAENOIC ACID (EPA) AND DOCOSAHEXAENOIC ACID (DHA)

EPA and DHA are important for various aspects of your health, including heart health, immune system support, and brain development.

  • ALA slowly converts to EPA and DHA in your body, albeit in small amounts.
  • Oily fish, such as mackerel, kippers, salmon, and sardines, are excellent sources of EPA and DHA.

Additional Sources

  • White fish and shellfish also contain some LCN-3, although in lower levels compared to oily fish.
  • It's advisable to include both types of fish in your regular diet.

Benefits of Consuming Oily Fish

Oily fish offer not just omega-3 fats but also a range of other essential nutrients.

  • Oily fish provide vitamins A and D, protein, and minerals like iodine, calcium, and selenium.
  • Oily fish may help protect your heart and blood vessels, support healthy development during pregnancy and breastfeeding, maintain memory, and prevent and treat depression.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainable sourcing of omega-3-rich foods is essential to preserve fish stocks.

  • The richest dietary sources of long-chain omega-3 fats are marine fish oils derived from micro-algae.
  • Certain fish species, such as wild salmon and trout, are facing declining stocks. Opt for fish from certified sources, such as those recognized by the Marine Stewardship Council.

Recommended Omega-3 Intake

Understanding how much omega-3 you should consume for optimal health.

  • Aim to eat two portions of fish per week, with one of them being oily fish.

Safety Guidelines for Fish Consumption

Some fish may contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful, especially for specific populations.

  • Avoid fish like shark, swordfish, and marlin if you are pregnant, planning to have a baby, or under 16.
  • Other adults, including those who are breastfeeding, should limit their consumption of these high-mercury fish to one portion per week.
  • If you are not planning to have children, you can consume up to four portions of other fish per week.
  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, and those planning pregnancy can safely consume up to two portions of oily fish per week.

Alternative Sources for Non-Fish Eaters

For those who don't consume fish or follow plant-based diets, alternative sources of omega-3 are available.

  • Nuts, seeds (e.g., walnuts, pumpkin, and chia seeds), vegetable oils (e.g., rapeseed and linseed), and soya products (e.g., beans, milk, and tofu) are plant-based sources of omega-3.
  • Some omega-3 enriched foods, like certain brands of eggs, milk, yoghurt, bread, and spreads, are suitable for plant-based diets.

Supplements: A Consideration

Taking omega-3 supplements is a topic of discussion, and there are guidelines to consider.

  • Choose omega-3 supplements rather than fish liver oil.
  • Check the vitamin A content to ensure it doesn't exceed the recommended daily limit.
  • Avoid supplements containing vitamin A if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
  • Look for supplements that provide a daily amount equivalent to eating one to two portions of fish per week (around 450mg EPA and DHA for adults).
  • Choose age-appropriate supplements for children.

Top Tips for Omega-3 Intake

A summary of key tips to enhance your omega-3 intake and maintain a balanced and sustainable diet.

  • Increase your consumption of omega-3-rich foods.
  • Include fish from sustainable sources in your diet.
  • Limit oily fish to two portions per week if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby.
  • Avoid high-mercury fish if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or under 16.
  • Cook with oils rich in omega-3.
  • Incorporate plant-based sources of omega-3.
  • Explore canned fish and other fish products.
  • Check labels for omega-3 content.
  • Include fortified foods if fish is not part of your diet.

Need to Supplement?

Tower Health offers omega 3-6-9 supplements, catering to diverse dietary and nutritional needs. These supplements offer a comprehensive blend of essential fatty acids, including Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9, contributing to overall well-being and health support.

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