Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining normal cell activity and supporting heart and brain health. Besides salmon, mackerel, flaxseed oil, eggs, and shellfish, walnuts are also an excellent source of these essential nutrients. The three main types of omega-3 fatty acids – DHA, EPA, and ALA – offer numerous benefits for the heart, such as reducing triglycerides levels and increasing good HDL cholesterol levels.
Mackerel is a nutrient-dense food that offers a high amount of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids along with vitamin B12 and selenium. Salmon is rich in protein, vitamin D, B vitamins, and significant omega-3 content. Flaxseed oil contains ALA which gets converted into EPA and DHA in the body. On the other hand, eggs provide mainly EPA and DHA while soybeans offer plant-based omega-3 fatty acids alongside protein and fiber. Walnuts contain heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats along with a high amount of ALA. Lentils are high in fiber that can aid in weight loss while shellfish like oysters, lobster, scallops also contain omega-3 fatty acids.
Incorporating these foods into your diet ensures you get enough omega-3s for overall health benefits. They provide various essential nutrients that work together to promote optimal health and wellbeing.