Omega-3 fatty acids, sounds like a lofty term in the world of science and technology, and you might fall into a complex scientific maze. But don’t worry, I will try to demystify this fatty acid for you in the simplest and most straightforward way possible. You may be surprised to learn that this “high-tech” term may be the most important thing you need to know for your health, sanity, and mood.

First of all, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for normal physiological activity in our bodies, but it’s important to note that our bodies can’t produce them on their own, so they need to be obtained through food. The three important components covered are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid).

What exactly do these relentless chemical terms bring to our bodies? The biggest benefit of omega-3 for the body is the anti-inflammatory effect it exerts. Inflammation is a huge risk factor if you have heart disease, and inflammation can cause atherosclerosis leading to heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce this inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. It also lowers triglyceride levels in the blood, protects nerve cells in the brain, protects vision, prevents Alzheimer’s, and even fights depression.

And yes, even more surprisingly, omega-3 does wonders for our thoughts and emotions as well! With that said, you may be thinking, “Oh, I see, this is the legendary ‘smart fish oil’, right?” That’s right! Research has found that 25% of the human brain is made up of fat, and the body’s favorite fats are omega-3 fats for brain nutrition. Omega-3s play a key role in maintaining normal brain function by improving memory, speeding up brain reactions, dealing with depression and anxiety, and more.

So let’s discuss in more detail the foods that are rich in omega-3s, which are not just a solution for your nan’s hunger, but more importantly provide the key ‘fuel’ for brain health.

Fish: Especially fatty saltwater fish such as salmon, trout, tuna and mackerel are great sources of omega-3s.

Walnuts: Walnuts are high in ALA and a daily dose of walnuts is good for our body.

Flaxseed: Flaxseed is an excellent source of ALA. Ground flaxseed can be sprinkled on oatmeal, salads and even baked goods.

Eggs: Eggs are an inexpensive and rich source of omega-3 fatty acids in our daily lives.

Marinated tofu: Soy products also have many health benefits, especially for those who don’t eat meat, soy products rich in omega-3 fatty acids are an inexhaustible source of benefits.

Seaweeds: Some seaweeds and seaweeds such as nori and kelp are also omega-3 rich foods that not only taste wonderful, but are also very beneficial to the body.

Prickly Fruit Lettuce Seed Oil: This brightly colored oil is rich in ALA and can be used in cooking or just tossed on food.

Spirulina: Spirulina is a microscopic marine algae rich in EFAs and DHA and is often processed into an algae powder that is used for the body to supplement with rich omega-3s.

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are the smallest of these foods, but are a great storehouse of ALA, and are used in pastes or wraps to add rich omega-3 nutrients to your body.

In short, adequate intake of omega-3 rich foods on a daily basis can do wonders for the health of our bodies and minds. A serving of eggs and walnuts for breakfast, a salmon salad for lunch, a serving of nori soup for dinner, and some prickly pear lettuce seed oil tossed bread for a snack will not only satisfy your palate, but your body and mind as well. Remember, healthy living starts with food.