What are omega-3 fatty acids?
Omega-3 fatty acids are types of poly-unsaturated fatty acids(PUFAs) that are good for your health. The omega-3 fatty acids called EPA and DHA are found in fish. They are good for the brain and heart. They are especially helpful for the development of babies’ brains both before and after birth. In adults, omega-3 fatty acids help to lower triglyceride levels, lower levels of depression, and may lower stiffness and joint pain.
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How do omega-3 fatty acids make me healthier?
Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids decrease the chance of having arrhythmias (abnormal heartbeats), which can lead to sudden death. Omega-3 fatty acids also slow the growth of blockages in arteries and can lower the blood pressure.
Research has also found that mothers who eat more fish during pregnancy may have infants with better development of their neurologic systems, which means they may have higher IQs in the future. Children who eat fish have also been found to have higher average scores on intelligence and behavior testing.
Will eating fish help?
Increasing omega-3 fatty acids by eating fish is preferable to taking pills. However, people with coronary artery disease may not get enough omega-3 by diet alone. These people may want to talk to their doctor about supplements.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises children and pregnant women to eat up to 12 ounces (two average meals) per week of a variety of fish and shellfish for their health.
Go to the Fish List tab on the FISH website to see which fish to eat and which fish to avoid to minimize pollutants.
Adapted from American Heart Association, Feb 2018.
https://healthyforgood.heart.org/Eat-smart/Articles/Fish-and-Omega-3-Fatty-Acids