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Omega-3 Fatty Acids

By Jennifer Moll, About.com

Updated: September 25, 2008

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Definition: Omega 3 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fat that are classified as an essential fatty acid, which means that they cannot be made by the body and must be obtained from the diet. Unsaturated fatty acids in this group include docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA),and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

You can obtain omega-3 fatty acids from a variety of sources including fish, nuts, and linseed.

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