Let's talk about Meg 3
May 24, 2021 Prepared by Nutritionist Jen, 4th Dec 2017
Since doctors have long urged people to eat more fish, have you wondered why? Here are some myths that most people believe:
All omega-3 fatty acids are from fish. False
Fish contains a variety of fatty acids. However, EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acids) are the one found exclusively in seafood and marine algae. ALA (Alpha-linolenic acid) on the other context, is a type of omega-3 found in plant sources such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, soy and their oils.
Only people with heart problems should be taking omega-3 supplements. False
Most healthy adults do not meet the recommendations on their diet. Generally children have lower requirements than adults. Contradictory, pregnant and lactating women have higher requirements to support development and growth of foetus/infant. In fact, omega-3 fatty acids are considered essential.
The omega-3 to omega-6 ratio is important. True
Omega-6 fatty acids is another group of essential fatty acids with similar structure yet distinct function as compared to omega-3. Most people consume high proportion of omega-6 but not omega-3. Intakes of omega-3 and omega-6 should be in balance with each other. At any rate, by increasing the intakes of omega-3 fatty acids, will improve the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.
