What Is an Omega-3 Vitamin?

While personal health has always been important, the recent health kick is introducing many people to new terms and products. Omega-3 vitamins are a great way to help your health, all with a simple pill. But what is Omega-3, and how can these vitamins help?

Definition of Omega-3

According to the American Heart Association, Omega-3 is a fatty acid that comes from certain types of fish. While it is a "fatty acid," it is good for the human body.

Omega-3 Vitamins

Some Omega-3 vitamins aim to give you the recommended daily amount of the Omega-3 that you should have. Others attempt to "overload" by giving you more of the Omega-3 than recommended. According to the AHA, too much Omega-3 can cause excessive bleeding.

Benefits

The AHA has done extensive research, showing that Omega-3 (in the form of Omega-3 vitamins) can seriously help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Omega-3 vitamins can help "reduce triglyceride levels" and "decrease growth rate of atherosclerotic plaque," major causes of heart issues.

Types of Vitamins

Some Omega-3 vitamins have nothing but pure Omega-3 oil in them. Other Omega-3 vitamins attempt to give you multiple vitamins by mixing the Omega-3 with other needed vitamins and nutrients.

Origination

Omega-3 comes from certain type of fatty fish, including (as listed by the AHA) mackerel, albacore tuna and salmon, among other types of fish. Each fish will have different amounts of this specific fatty acid.

References

• American Heart Association