Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fish vs. Walnuts - What's the Difference?

Question
Hello Ms. Tessmer,

Is there any difference between the Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish vs. walnuts? Also, will consuming lots of omega-3s make you "smarter," or will it just help prevent mental decline?

Sincerely,
Claire

Answer
Claire,
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in (fatty) fish as well as nuts, soy, canola and flaxseed oils.  The only difference is that nuts supply alpha-linolenic acid, which converts to omega-3 fatty acids, so there really is not a difference.

No, omega-3 fatty acids will not make you smarter.  But they do help keep your brain and nervous system functioning normally.  They also help lower the risk for heart disease and are linked to eye health, arthritis and immunity.  They are discovering new benefits all the time!

Kim Tessmer, RD LD
www.Nutrifocus.net