It seems everyone is talking about omega-3 fatty acids and their benefits.

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acids and one of the most important essential fatty acids. It plays an important role in all our life stages and thus, very essential to include omega-3 rich source in our diet.

Natural sources of omega – 3 fatty acids include fatty fishes like mackerel, tuna, sardines and some vegetarian sources like flaxseeds, soyabean, walnuts etc.

Let’s understand, why we need to add omega-3 supplement in our diet and how should we choose?

There are three important omega-3 fatty acids (ALA, EPA and DHA). Studies suggest that the combination of EPA and DHA is best for overall health e.g., preventing heart disease and depression, promoting healthy brain development.

ALA is found in plant sources which is the precursor of EPA, but the conversion rate of ALA to EPA and DHA is almost negligible and hence more the reason to consume EPA and DHA directly.

EPA and DHA are two active ingredients of omega-3 fatty acids, which are responsible for the role of healthy heart and other key benefits. The first published study highlighting the benefits of EPA and DHA dates back to 1971.

One of the natural sources is fatty fishes, but due to increasing industrial pollution, we cannot rely on natural sources like fatty fishes due to presence of heavy metals like mercury, lead in their system.

It Is Important To Check Before You Buy Any Omega-3 Supplement:

Go for the supplement which has EPA and DHA in their omega-3 fatty acid composition.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR, 2010) recommends optimal intake of 250mg - 2g of EPA and DHA to reduce any heart related diseases, make sure your daily serving meets the requirement.

Higher amounts of EPA are associated with reducing the inflammation and thus improve the immunity and joint health. Check the label to understand the quantity of EPA individually; it needs to be on the higher side.

The omega-3 Supplement should contain minimum 250 mg of DHA to support heart, brain and eye health.

Always check the quantity and the serving size of the products.

If you are a non-vegetarian, always opt for fish oil supplements with better EPA + DHA combination, with no fishy burps and low detectable levels of mercury, cadmium, lead and PCBs

Fish oils are one of the best omega-3 supplements as compared to any other supplement.

Fish oils supplements providing Vitamin D, CoQ 10 and A along with omega-3 would be one of the best choices. Go for it!

If you are a pure vegetarian, opt for flaxseed oil supplement which will provide sufficient amount of omega-3 fatty acids for your overall good health.

Contributed By GNC