What is the main source of omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own, which makes dietary sources important. The primary sources of omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish, especially fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in certain plant-based foods such as flaxseeds and chia seeds. These sources contain beneficial forms of omega-3s, like EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) from fish, and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) from plant sources.

Fish and flaxseeds provide significant health benefits associated with omega-3 fatty acids, including anti-inflammatory properties and support for heart health. The presence of these specific food sources makes them the main and most recognized contributors to dietary omega-3 intake. Other food groups, like red meat, fruits, and dairy products, do not provide substantial amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, and therefore are not considered primary sources.