What are EPA and DHA?
EPA and DHA are both Omega-3 Fatty Acids. These are fatty acids which are necessary for our body and which we must consume through our diet or as food supplements if we find it difficult to get enough. Both EPA and DHA are found naturally in fish, and some of the best sources are: Mackerel
Salmon
Herring
Stone bites and stone bite roe
Halibut Wild fish generally have a higher content of omega-3 than farmed fish, as farmed fish are given a special diet and thus have not produced as much omega-3. In addition, DHA is also good for both the brain and vision. DHA is found in the cell wall of the brain, and when you consume DHA it helps to maintain normal brain function. When you are pregnant, it is especially important that you get enough fish oil containing DHA, as this way the brain of the fetus develops in the best possible way. DHA is also found in the eye, where images are registered and sent on to the brain. It is therefore an important part of normal vision development in both fetuses and infants, but also for the maintenance of vision throughout life. What is ALA?
ALA Abbreviation of Alpha-linolenic acid. ALA, like DHA and EPA, is an omega-3 fatty acid, but in contrast, ALA comes from the plant world. You especially get ALA through various seeds such as flaxseed, rapeseed and chia seed, and also through plant foods such as spinach, kale and several other vegetables. ALA is converted into the actual fish oils DHA and EPA through the substance system, but this is an inefficient process and it happens at about 4 percent. When ALA is not converted into the actual fatty acids, the body simply uses it as energy, and is therefore not considered to be the most optimal way for you to get the fatty acids that your body needs. Check if you are getting enough omega-3 How much EPA and DHA should you have? Whether you get enough omega-3 fatty acids largely depends on how much fish you eat. The recommended amount is 600-1000 mg. Omega 3 per day for an adult, and you get this amount if you eat fish with a high content of EPA and DHA about twice a week. Dietary supplements with EPA and DHA are some of the most widely used supplements, and they are available both as capsules and in liquid form. It is therefore relatively easy to get the recommended amount if you eat fish, but if not, it is recommended that you start taking a food supplement containing especially DHA and EPA, so that you and your body can feel all the good benefits that these fish oils contain. It is not recommended to take food supplements containing ALA if you want to achieve the recommended amount of omega-3, as this must be taken in very large quantities in order to achieve the recommended level.