omega 3
WHAT is omega 3?
Omega 3 is a polyunsaturated fat. Polyunsaturated fats are vital since the human body cannot produce them itself, but we must absorb them through food.
The parent fatty acid in the omega-3 family is called alpha-linolenic acid.
hOW MUCH DO WE NEED?
According to public sources, approximately 1% of the daily energy, i.e. calories, should come from omega 3 (this should correspond to approx. 2.5-3 grams per day for an adult.
why should we eat omega 3?
Omega 3 is important in building and repairing cells, and for the anti-coagulation of the blood. In addition, omega 3 is vital for the development of a foetus.
plant-based omega 3
Fish and seafood do not produce omega 3, they merely store it from the algae they eat. Omega 3 is actually produced by algae. Omega 3 is also often found in nuts and many common oils such as rapeseed oil and olive oil.
to think about
Did you know that there are omega 3 supplements made from algae that are fully vegan and plant-based, i.e. no fish or seafood have been harmed in the extraction? These should be available online or at your local health shop.
Disclaimer – please note that we are not in any way experts in nutrition, all information above is translated summaries of information available on the Swedish National Food Administration’s (Livsmedelsverket) webpage.
