Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of fat that the body cannot produce on its own. They are essential fats, meaning we need them to survive. Because the body cannot produce them, we must obtain them through our diet. There are two main types of omega-3 fatty acids: long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These are abundant in fish and shellfish. Algae often provide only DHA. Short-chain omega-3 fatty acids, on the other hand, include ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). These are found in plants, such as flaxseed. While ALA omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial, they offer less pronounced health advantages than EPA and DHA. What is contained in Omega 3? Both EPA and DHA offer numerous health benefits, but they each possess unique properties that affect different aspects of health. Both impact our bodies, tissues, and cells, making it important to ensure a regular intake of these two fatty acids. Proper supplementation with vitamin E and fish oil protects omega-3 fatty acids in the gut and after absorption. The synergistic effects of combining omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E are strong, particularly the anti-inflammatory benefits. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): - contribute to normal heart function - contribute to maintaining normal blood pressure - contribute to maintaining normal triglyceride concentrations in the blood Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): - contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function - contributes to the maintenance of normal vision - contributes to the development of the eyesight of young children - contributes to the normal brain development of the fetus and breastfed child during pregnancy and breastfeeding - contributes to the normal development of the eyes of the fetus and breastfed child during pregnancy and breastfeeding Vitamin E: - helps protect cells from oxidative stress The benefits of including omega-3 fatty acids in our diet include: - lower risk of cardiovascular disease - lower risk of death from cardiovascular diseases - Reduction of the risk of sudden cardiac death due to cardiac arrhythmias - Reduction of the risk of blood clots - less inflammation