Maybe you're familiar with Ala, EPA, and DHA for omega-3s.
They are three common types of omega-3s that we have heard of.
There are 11 types in total, but most people don't know much about the other types of features.
ALA is a plant-based omega-3 found in foods such as flaxseeds, chia seeds,**, and walnuts.
EPA and DHA are marine** and are found in fatty fish such as sardines, anchovies, mackerel, salmon, and tuna.
These healthy fats make up the cells of our entire body and support overall health – brain function, mood, concentration, vision, inflammatory response, immunity, heart function, respiratory health, metabolic health, pregnancy, and more.
Omega-3 ALA, EPA and DHA work together to support overall health.
Studies have shown that EPA is primarily used to support a healthy inflammatory response and immune function, while DHA is primarily used to support healthy brain development and function.
While research on ALA is lacking, it is fairly clear that ALA supports a healthy inflammatory response and has antioxidant effects.
Our bodies use ALA to produce EPA and DHA, but there are usually not a lot of ALAs that produce EPA and DHA.
It varies from person to person (depending on your health, diet, etc.), but it is estimated that the percentage of ALA converted to EPA is about 8% to 12%, and the percentage converted to DHA is 1% or less.
Science shows that without enough omega-3 EPA and DHA, our bodies can't function optimally.
If you're not getting the amount you need, supplements can often help.
Omega-3 fats are the main nutrients in a healthy vitamin regimen.
Two ways to get omega-3 EPA and DHA are through the ocean**: fish or algae.
Fish oil is important for omega-3s**, with high amounts of EPA and DHA (which you can find on supplement labels) per serving to support overall health.
It is usually derived from a variety of fish; The most common are anchovies, sardines, and mackerel.
For vegans and vegetarians, algal oil is an excellent plant for omega-3 EPA and DHA**.
You'll notice that algal oil typically contains less EPA and DHA per serving than fish oil, while algal oil contains more DHA per serving than EPA.