Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that are essential for life. Omega-3s help protect against heart disease, promote healthy skin and joints and are essential to proper neurological development in unborn babies and young children.*

Because of the health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids*, the American Heart Association's (AHA) dietary guidelines recommend that adults eat at least two servings of fish high in Omega-3 fatty acids per week.
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Omega 3

The USDA Nutrient Database for Standard Reference shows that both wild and ocean-farmed salmon contain high Omega-3 fatty acid levels, while chicken, beef and pork contain almost no Omega-3s.

Since the Omega-3 content varies widely in fish, it is important to note that ocean-farmed Atlantic salmon, at 1.9 grams per serving, and species of wild salmon, provide higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids* than most other fish sources. Fresh yellowfin tuna, for example, provides 0.2 gram per serving, swordfish provides 0.6 gram per serving and flounder provides 0.2 gram per serving. Mackerel, at 2.5 grams per serving, is another high-level source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Benefit:

The Heart and Cardiovascular System

Evidence strongly suggests that increasing Omega-3 fatty acids in the diet helps prevent heart disease and, at increased consumption levels, may dramatically cut the mortality rate in heart attack survivors.*

Reports:

The Mental and Nervous System

Several reports indicate the possibility of beneficial effects of Omega-3 fatty acids on various forms of depression*.

Reports:

Skin and Joints

Numerous reports show that Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and joint pain.*

Omega-3s help lock moisture into skin cells, encouraging the production of strong collagen and elastin fibers, which aid in youthful looking skin. Omega-3s have also been known to reduce skin blemishes.

Along with strengthening skin cells, Omega-3s can help maintain healthy joints by reducing inflammation and limiting joint pain.

Reports:

Immune Responses to Omega-3s in Men at Different Ages

Infant Development

Required throughout pregnancy, Omega-3 fatty acids are critical for proper brain, eye and nervous system development in the developing fetus.*

Reports:

Can a Shortage of Omega-3s in Pregnancy be Overcome?
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* Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. One serving of ocean-farmed Atlantic salmon provides 1.9 grams of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids.

Learn more about the health values of ocean-farmed salmon—see Salmon: The Healthy Choice »