Discover 16 best sources of omega-3 fatty acids to support brain to heart health.

Plus, how much omega-3s to consume per day.

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a registered dietitian and neuronutritionist

However, some folks still may not be getting enough of it regularly.

Here are five of the main health benefits of omega-3s:

1.

It helps reduce inflammation

Richter saysomega-3s can reduce oxidative stress1that can lead to inflammation.

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It helps lower systemic inflammation by improving cell signaling and reducing proinflammatory proteins, called cytokines, Richter explains.

It supports heart health

Omega-3s are also often praised for their heart health benefits.

Additionally, some research studies show that omega-3 supplementation may be particularly effective forhelping treat inflammatory skin diseases4through diet.

Young woman mixing ice coffee

As a result, omega-3 requirements may increase during pregnancy tosupport fetal growth5, particularly the brain and eyes.

Ahead, were sharing 16 foods high in omega-3s (half animal and half plant-based).

For overall well-being, Richter recommends that adults consume or supplement with 250 to 500 milligrams of omega-3s daily.

Cropped shot of young woman shopping in the dairy section of a supermarket. She is reading the nutrition label on a container of fresh organic healthy natural yoghurt

a registered dietitian and neuronutritionist

Meanwhile, a pregnant or lactating person should aim for roughly 500 milligrams of omega-3s daily.

That said, its always best to consult your healthcare provider before making any dietary changes.

What are the symptoms of lack of omega-3?

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.

Richter shares seven symptoms associated with omega-3 deficiencies.

This is because of the synergistic benefits of nutrient combos.

For instance, in the presence of other healthy fats, omega-3s can be absorbed better.

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Sometimes omega-3 supplements can cause burping and indigestion that can be uncomfortable for many.

2017 Nov 9;12(11):e0187934.

PMID: 29121093; PMCID: PMC5679535.

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Dighriri, Ibrahim M et al.

Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Brain Functions: A Systematic Review.Cureusvol.

9 Oct. 2022, doi:10.7759/cureus.30091

Wei, Bao-Zhen et al.

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117,6 (2023): 1096-1109. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.04.001

Thomsen, Bryce J et al.

The Potential Uses of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Dermatology: A Review.Journal of cutaneous medicine and surgeryvol.

24,5 (2020): 481-494. doi:10.1177/1203475420929925

Coletta, Jaclyn M et al.

Omega-3 Fatty acids and pregnancy.Reviews in obstetrics & gynecologyvol.

3,4 (2010): 163-71.

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