The Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Dietary fat is broken down into fatty acids in our body. Fatty acids are important for many bodily functions including energy production, making cell membranes, and for signaling the inflammatory cascade. Among the several types of fatty acids, omega-3s have special benefits. Many people take supplements containing them in the form of fish oil. But, why? Can we get omega-3s in food? Why do we need them? How are they beneficial? In today’s episode, we introduce the omega-3 fatty acids. We discuss their naming convention, their health benefits, and we single out a few of the main players. Today on The Lab Report: 2:55 What is a fatty acid and where do those names come from?   7:05 The benefits of omega-3s 8:25 Dietary sources 12:05 Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) 14:00 Supplementing with fish oil 17:35 Better Know a Biomarker 22:10 Question of the Day How do we decide which fish oil supplement is best? Additional Resources: NutrEval Metabolomix+ Subscribe, Rate, & Review The Lab Report Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of The Lab Report, presented by Genova Diagnostics, with your hosts Michael Chapman and Patti Devers. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button and give us a rating or leave a review. Don’t forget to visit our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Email Patti and Michael with your most interesting and pressing questions on functional medicine: [email protected]. And, be sure to share your favorite Lab Report episodes with your friends and colleagues on social media to help others learn more about Genova and all things related to functional medicine and specialty lab testing. Disclaimer: The content and information shared in The Lab Report is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. The views and opinions expressed in The Lab Report represent the opinions and views of Michael Chapman and Patti Devers and their guests.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.