The Omega-3 Fatty Acids Frequently Asked Questions Page

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (also referred to as n-3 fatty acids) are essential to human health, and an overlooked yet important part of our dietary requirements. A growing body of research now suggests that these essential fatty acids play a key role in maintaining proper health. This Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) web site is devoted to providing to both basic and specific information as to the health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids. Research indicates that we do not include enough of these 'good fats' in our diet, and it is believed that supplementing one's diet with Omega-3 fatty acids may aid in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, stroke, asthma, arthritis, and many more diseases. With this FAQ we have tried to create a resource for people interested in finding out more about these essential fatty acids without requiring a scientific background. We will outline the benefits and risks of supplementing one's diet with Omega-3 fatty acids, explain what they do, and well as cite our sources for those who would like to read more detailed research. We hope you find this web site informative and interesting.


Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids

Overview

An overview of the critical Omega-3 fatty acids and their role in maintaining and improving health. This section will answer the basic questions about why a person might want to supplement their diet with these essential fats, now referred to as functional foods or nutraceuticals by some, in order to improve health.



What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

Our modern diet is not only higher in fat than is healthful, but we also do not eat enough of 'good' fats. Polyunsaturated fats such as Omega-3s are largely ignored, yet are essential to maintain good health. Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) are the the most important Omega-3 fatty acids and in this section we explain the role of each essential fatty acid human health.


The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids

The Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are not only critical for development, but the proper balance of these nutrients throughout life may be able to prevent or cure many diseases from which we suffer. In this section we highlight the health benefits of Omega-3s and review the many conditions that may be alleviated or even prevented by consuming the right amount of these fatty acids.



Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids

Dietary Sources and Requirements

While there are many ways to incorporate more Omega-3 fatty acids into one's diet, some sources are richer than others. In this section we will highlight particularly good sources of the trhe primary Omega-3s (DHA, EPA, and ALA) and outline the basic dietary requirements of these essential fatty acids.



Sources of omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

A growing body of research is supporting the belief that Omega-3 fatty acids are an important nutritional requirement during pregnancy. As Omega-3 fatty acids are found throughout the body, they are particularly important during the development of a child, both in utero and in infancy. This section will review the importance of Omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and breastfeeding and offer some answers to the simple questions like "what is the suggested daily requirement of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy" and "are there any risks?"


The Potential Risks of Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

The Potential Risks of Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

While dietary Omega-3 fatty acids are healthful and even required by the human body, there may be some risks associated with taking Omega-3 supplements for individuals who suffer from certain ailments or take particular medication. This section will highlight potential risks and identify those who may want to consult a healthcare professional before supplementing their diet with additional Omega-3 fatty acids.


Summary of Recommendations

Summary of Recommendations

A quick reference of how much Omega-3 Fatty Acids an individual should take depending on one's health profile, as well as other useful charts.




Links and Other Information Sources

Links and Other Information Sources

Links to some of our references as well as many additional resources of information for researching the role omega-3 fatty acids play in our health and wellbeing. Here we include links to new and continuing studies of these essential fatty acids.