Your Body Needs Them. Fish Make Them.
Beneficial Omega-3s Have Everyone Talking.

If you've ever wondered exactly what “omega-3s” are and why they seem to be such a big deal in the health world, you're not alone.

What Are They?

Omega-3s are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids commonly found in fish, yet not so commonly in the diet of the average American. While we don't know everything about omega-3s yet, our bodies clearly crave them, and for good reason. Omega-3s have been linked to better heart health and fewer chronic diseases, and our bodies can't build some cells without them. Let's run down the most important facts about omega-3s:

Your Body Needs Omega-3s but Can't Produce Them

This strange situation is especially important for children in the womb, who need omega-3s for brain growth. Some groups like the Inuit may have once obtained fatty acids in greater quantity by eating fish. As their diets shifted, they may have lost their ready supply of omega-3s.

There Are 3 Main Types of Omega-3s

Though your body doesn't produce omega-3s on its own, it can synthesize two of the fatty acids it really needs—EPA and DHA—from the more common alphalinolenic acid, or ALA, found in leafy greens, nuts, flax, and some other plants. Scientists, however, believe more research is needed into ALA.

Your Heart May Benefit from Omega-3s

The fatty acids have been shown by numerous studies to lower high blood pressure, decrease triglyceride levels, slow the growth of atherosclerotic plaque, and decrease risk of arrhythmia. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish twice a week and, for those with documented heart conditions, taking omega-3 supplements.