What it does
A family of fats that includes ALA, EPA and DHA.
What symptoms can—and cannot—tell you
Essential fatty-acid deficiency is uncommon but can affect skin and other tissues. ALA (omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6) must come from the diet. Symptoms or an individual fatty-acid measurement do not by themselves select a supplement.
Food sources
Fatty fish supply EPA and DHA. Flaxseed, chia, walnuts and certain plant oils supply ALA.
Supplement forms
Fish oil and algae-derived oils; compare the actual EPA and DHA amounts on labels.
Before taking a supplement
Concentrated supplements can interact with medicines and may differ substantially from foods. Discuss pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney or liver disease, and planned surgery with a clinician or pharmacist.
Questions for your visit
Could my diet, medicines, absorption or another condition explain my concern? What evidence would support treatment, and how would we check whether it helps?
Names you may see
Omega-3
Sources & perspective
This is an editorial adaptation of the Purser Wellness nutrient reference app. Purser teaching connections are labeled separately from clinical interpretation. Private cases and individual treatment protocols are not reproduced.
The external resource below explains supplement safety; it does not validate every proposed use of this ingredient.
NIH: omega-3 fatty acidsNCCIH: using dietary supplements wisely
