Consumer knowledge surrounding the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids – found predominantly in fatty/oily fish – has been sparse in the United States, where more than a third of adults have experienced at least one heart scare in their lifetime.
A new survey conducted by the Global Organization for EPA and DHA Omega-3s (GOED) has found that even following an adverse cardiac event, most Americans do not consider taking natural supplements, like omega-3s, nor do they change their diets to include more fish or other omega-3 sources. What’s more, American adults seem to struggle when trying to identify good sources of omega-3s, like herring, mackerel and other fish/fish oils.
The bulk of survey respondents (66 percent) reported that they did not take supplements following a heart health scare, and 46 percent said that they stuck to their same diet post-event. Moreover, most Americans seem to be in the dark when it comes to identifying good sources of omega-3s, with 92 percent of the survey respondents unable to accurately pinpoint proper omega-3 dietary agents.
"Most people don't have the important information they need about omega-3s as it relates to heart, brain and eye health, as evidenced by this survey," said Adam Ismail, executive director of GOED. "This underscores the strong need for clear communication and education about the health benefits, nutritional value and sources of omega-3s."
With omega-3s proven to support heart, brain and eye health, it is the common medical recommendation that people consume at least two servings of omega-3-rich foods per week.
"To maintain healthy omega-3 levels, I recommend everyone eat at least two servings per week of omega-3-rich seafood per week or take an omega-3 supplement," Bill Harris, MD, an internationally recognized expert on EPA and DHA omega-3s.
Fish that are considered some of the best, environmentally-sound sources for omega-3s include the following, according to the U.S. News & World Report:
- Wild Alaska salmon
- Arctic char
- Atlantic mackerel
- Sardines
- Sablefish/black cod
- Anchovies
- Oysters
- Rainbow trout
- Albacore tuna
- Mussels
- Pacific halibut
