Is Fish the Best Way to Get Omega-3 Fats?

Omega-3 provides many health benefits: promoting brain development in infants, anti-inflammatory, anti-depressant, anti-ageing, and the list goes on. 
 

Omega-3 fats come in three main forms: EPA, DHA, and ALA. EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish. ALA is the type of omega-3 in plant-based food sources (e.g. walnuts, flaxseed, canola oil and soybeans). 
 

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Plant-based omega-3 prevents you from having scaly skin, weak and brittle hair and fastens wound healing. 
 

Heart-protective fish or marine-based fatty acids decrease your risk of cardiovascular disease and improve cognitive function in the elderly.
 

The body needs all three types of omega-3 fats for optimal health. Hence, include both fish- and plant-based sources in your diet. 

 

By Ms Ayla Coussa

Clinical Dietitian

Bareen Hospital