Types of Omega 3 Fatty Acids Explained

There seems to be some common confusion when it comes to understanding omega 3 fatty acids. One of the most common misunderstandings is when people think of EPA or DHA versus fish oil as a source of omega 3 fats.

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Folks, DHA and EPA are omega 3 fatty acids. There are several different types: DHA and EPA and ALA. So, in short DHA is a type of omega 3 fat, just as EPA is, and ALA is.

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Now, this is not to say they are all the same. DHA and EPA and ALA are different. ALA is the variety that mostly comes in plant sources. Flaxseed is a well know example of a food source rich in ALA.

ALA needs to be converted by the body into DHA and EPA. DHA and EPA are different too, even though they are often found in the same food sources, albeit in different amounts.

Food sources that contain DHA and EPA would be fatty fish, and eggs. If you do enough research you will find various arguments about the respective importance (healthwise) of DHA versus EPA. Some studies claim DHA is the more important of the two, especially for brain health.

Regardless of what is right, both DHA and EPA are important and you need them both. Luckily, because they are found in the same food sources, you don't have to go hunting for different things to get enough of these nutrients.

I personally take a high quality omega 3 fish oil supplement every day. I also try to eat organic, omega 3 rich eggs in the morning.

I am also someone who happens to like the taste of fatty fish, whether it's tuna or sardines from a can. I like sushi too. I understand that not everyone likes sushi or the taste of fish. There is also the problem of contamination. I know that one should not eat too much fish as toxins are built up in the flesh due to pollution in the Ocean waters.

Even the FDA advises against consuming too much fish on any given month, especially if you are pregnant or nursing.

This all strengthens my belief that your primary source of omega 3 fats should be purified fish oil supplements in which the contaminants have been removed, leaving the DHA and EPA you need for optimal health.

Types of Omega 3 Fatty Acids Explained

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