Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
A recent study challenges the perceived heart health benefits of fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids, raising concerns about their impact on cardiovascular health.
- Fatty Acids are the building blocks of the fat in our bodies and in the food we eat.
- During digestion, the body breaks down fats into fatty acids, which can then be absorbed into the blood.
- Fatty acid molecules are usually joined together in groups of three, forming a molecule called a triglyceride.
- Triglycerides are also made in our bodies from the carbohydrates that we eat.
- The two main types of fatty acids are saturated fat and unsaturated fat.
- Saturated fats are sometimes known as “bad” or “unhealthy” fats because they increase your risk of certain diseases like heart disease and stroke.
- Unsaturated fats (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated) are considered “good” or “healthy” fats because they support your heart health when used in moderation.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
- They are polyunsaturated fatsthat perform important functions in your body. Your body can’t produce the amount of omega-3s you need to survive.
- So, omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients, meaning you need to get them from the foods you eat.
- They are found in foods, such as fish and flaxseed, and in dietary supplements, such as fish oil.
- The three main omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
