Omega−3 fatty acids are believed to be an important part of a healthy diet, helping to maintain a healthy heart.
There are three types involved in human diets:
ALA, found in plant oils such as those from walnut and edible seeds, flax, etc
EPA and DHA, both commonly found in marine oils, and marine algae and phytoplankton are primary sources of omega−3 fatty acids. This is where fish get their Omega-3 from.
Many Omega-3 supplements are derived from fish oils which makes them unsuitable for vegans.
Fortunately there are alternative supplements based directly on marine algae which contain the same Omega-3.
The benefits of supplements containing Omega-3 is still an area of research. Recent studies have returned differing results : some confirming improving heart health [1] but others finding no health risk reduction [2] or no protection against heart disease [3]
So should omega-3 be part of the diet?
On balance I think algae-based supplements such as Testa Omega-3 [4] containing EPA and DHA could be a useful addition.
References
[1] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/09/200917084102.htm
[2] https://www.ajmc.com/view/debate-over-fish-oil-therapy-continues-new-results-find-no-risk-reduction-from-omega-3-combo
[3] https://theconversation.com/omega-3-supplements-dont-protect-against-heart-disease-new-review-100111
[4] https://testa-omega3.com/en
