Description
Consumption of Omega 3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. FDA evaluated the data and determined that, although there is scientific evidence supporting the claim, the evidence is not conclusive. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids (EFAs), which means that they are essential to human health and cannot be made in the body. For this reason, they must be obtained from food. The American Heart Association (AHA) supports the use of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as part of a heart healthy eating plan. The AHA recommendation is to eat a variety of fish (preferably fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines) at least twice a week to provide EPA and DHA. EPA + DHA supplements could be considered in consultation with a physician. Omega 3 fatty acids also help maintain triglyceride levels already in the normal range. The AHA also supports up to 5-10% of total calories as part of total fat intake to come from omega-6 fatty acids. Together, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function as well as normal growth and development, and heart health.