Fish or Flaxseed- What Contains More Omega-3

Highlights:

Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for human health. Many people take supplements to meet their requirements
Fish and other shellfish contain the two primary forms of omega-3s- eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), whereas plant sources like flaxseeds have alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
The body can convert some ALA to EPA and DHA but the conversion is ineffective. Therefore, it is recommended to consume fish or fish oil supplements over plant-based sources that contain omega-3 fatty acids

Many people think flaxseed can provide the same omega-3 fatty acids as fish. However, the body does not completely convert all of the alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) in flaxseed to the longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) present in fish.

According to some research, men who take flaxseed oil may have somewhat greater blood levels of EPA and DHA than men who do not, albeit these levels are still low in comparison to those attained by eating fish.

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Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil are helpful to treat many health problems. Fish oil benefits eyes, bones, heart, brain, skin and hair.

‘The conversion of alpha-linolenic acid found in plant sources to EPA and DHA by the body is inefficient. As a result, it is advised to consume fish or fish oil supplements rather than sources of omega-3 fatty acids found in plants.’

What is Omega-3 Fatty Acid

Fish, nuts, and seeds are just a few foods that contain omega 3, a type of fatty acid crucial for human health.

MUFA and PUFA Foods
Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids are the healthy fats. Replacing unhealthy saturated fats and trans fats with MUFA and PUFA help improve health.

Types of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are the two main types of omega-3 unsaturated fats.

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Omega-3 fatty acids improve the immune system’s capacity to combat the COVID-19 virus.

Flaxseeds and Omega-3

Some people think flaxseed can provide three times as much omega-3 as seafood. Flaxseeds contain minerals, lignans, soluble and insoluble fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Along with being nutritious, flaxseeds also have phytochemicals that may lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and stroke.

A single tablespoon of ground flaxseed has 2.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids and around 3 grams of fiber.

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Fish and Omega-3

Fish oil contains EPA and DHA, while plants like flaxseed oil contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Although ALA can be converted by the body to EPA and DHA, the process is ineffective. For this reason, it is advised against consuming EPA and DHA from plants like flaxseed but rather from fish or fish oil supplements.

Why you should Eat Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds have many health advantages:

Aids in blood pressure and cholesterol regulation
Possesses anti-inflammatory qualities that assist in reducing arthritis-related pain and swelling
Lowers the risk of heart disease
Aids in maintaining a healthy weight