What are other sources of omega-3 fatty acids?
Alternative sources of the shorter omega-3 fatty acid ALA include flaxseed, walnuts, wheat germ and plant-based omega-3 tablets. However, since humans do not readily convert ALA to the more beneficial EPA and DHA, the omega 3s in terrestrial plants probably do not provide as a great a health benefit as the longer omega-3 fatty acids found in marine products. What are contaminants? Despite their valuable qualities, fish can pose considerable health risks when contaminated with substances such as metals (e.g., mercury and lead), industrial chemicals (e.g., PCBs) and pesticides (e.g., DDT and dieldrin). Through increased testing, many of our oceans, lakes and rivers are now known to be surprisingly tainted. As a result, some fish are sufficiently contaminated that Environmental Defense recommends limited or no consumption. (View our Health Alerts chart for adults and children.) Where do contaminants come from? Contaminants enter the water in a variety of ways. Industrial and municipal dis
