As there are different types of omega-3 fatty acids, so there are different sources of omega-3 within your diet. Some foods provide us with omega 3 ALA while others provide us with EPA and DHA.
It is vital to eat both sources of omega-3 fatty acids to ensure optimum levels in your body.
Foods High In ALA
ALA fatty acids are mainly present in plants, especially in the form of vegetable oils such as rapeseed, walnut or flaxseed. Consequently, vegetable margarine, made from these oils, can be very good sources of ALA.
ALA is also found in cabbage, spinach and salad leaves. There are also several animal sources including wild game and horses, although these are typically eaten sparsely in a Western diet.
The equivalent of two tablespoons of vegetable oil per day is required per day to meet the needs of your body. Note that it is healthier to use vegetable oils as a seasoning or dressing, rather than to fry with them.
Foods High In EPA & DHA
These omega-3 fatty acids are largely found in fish and seafood, especially fatty fish. They are also found in dairy products as well as in egg yolk, although this does depend on how the animals have been fed.
To meet our omega-3 EPA and DHA needs, two to three servings per week of fatty fish is required. This includes fish such as mackerel, salmon, anchovies, sardines etc as well as shellfish like crabs, lobster and crayfish.