Can omega-3s be obtained as part of the diet?
Yes, it is possible to obtain omega-3s through diet. Short-chain omega-3s can be obtained from flaxseed, rapeseed (canola) and walnut oils. The conversion of short-chain fatty acids into long-chain fatty acids is very inefficient, however, so in order to obtain the more important long-chain fatty acids in significant amounts it is slightly more difficult, particularly for vegetarians. EPA (the key omega-3 fatty acid) is found in rich supply in oily species of fish. Eating at least 2 oily portions of fish each week will provide a sufficient amount of omega-3 for maintaining cardiovascular health. The polluted state of our seas makes it dangerous, however, to attempt to obtain large amounts of omega-3 through eating fish. To obtain the amount of EPA necessary for a sustained benefit to both mental and physical health, it is safer to take a purified and concentrated fish oil supplement derived from the flesh of the fish, whereby toxins and heavy metals are removed from the oil. Vegepa pro
