Omega-3 fatty acid

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids. They have a double bond three atoms away from the end methyl group.

The most common sources for plant oils are walnuts, hemp oil and flaxseed oil. Sources of animal omega-3 fats include eggs, squid oils and fish.

Dietary supplementation does not affect the risk of cancer, heart disease or death.

They are not a main treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism and other developmental disabilities. However, omega-3 supplements are often given to children with these conditions.

500px|left|thumb|Chemical structure of α-linolenic acid (ALA), a fatty acid with a chain of 18 carbons with three double bonds on carbons numbered 9, 12, and 15. 

References

Category:Lipids

Category:Food supplements