The Best Type of Omega 3
Omega 3 fatty acids are a good way to protect your body from heart attack, heart disease and stroke. They are found in many foods, but some sources are better than others.
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Best Source
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Fish is the best source of Omega 3 fatty acids that your body needs. For every 1.5 ounces of fish, you can expect to get one gram of Omega 3. Mackerel, salmon and tuna are examples of good sources.
Recommendation
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The current recommendation for healthy adults as well as those with heart disease is to eat four to seven grams of Omega 3 per week, which you can get by eating three to four ounces of fish two times a week.
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Misconceptions
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There are concerns about the mercury in fish and if eating six to eight ounces of fish a week is safe. The current FDA guidelines for safe fish consumption is a maximum of 12 ounces per week. If you stay under this amount, you should not be exposed to dangerous mercury levels.
Considerations
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It is best to take a variety of fish like mackerel, salmon and tuna, and alternate them in your diet. This will ensure that you are getting Omega 3 from more than one source.
Warning
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These recommendations are for nonpregnant adults only. Children and pregnant women should talk to their doctor to determine the correct amount of Omega 3 for them.
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