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. Add more salmon to your diet with our appetizing recipes »

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.

Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

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:

• Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids Linked with Lower Sudden Death and CHD Risks
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Fish Reduce Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death
• American Heart Association: Statins and Fish Oil Protect Heart
• Fish, Levels of Mercury and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• Fish and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Reduce Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Women

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The Mental and Nervous System

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

Reports:

• Omega-3 fatty acids were shown to maintain mood stability
• Healthy Eating, Exercise Key to Keeping Brain Fit, Say Scientists
• Oily Fish 'Hope' for Alzheimer's

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:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids Benefit Surgery Patients

Infant Development

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

Reports:

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Effects on Child & Maternal Health
• The Omega Point (subscription only.)

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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.