Omega-3 fatty acids are important fats that reduce inflammation, triglycerides, and even the risk of dementia, as well as improving mental ability and memory and preventing premature aging. The most well-known sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish oil and fatty fish such as salmon, salmon, and tuna. But omega-3 intake can be challenging for vegans, vegetarians, or even those who are not interested in eating fish sources.
Of the three main types of omega-3 fatty acids, plant foods typically contain only alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).
Alpha-linolenic acid is not active in the body and must be converted into two other forms of omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in order to benefit from its properties. But unfortunately, the body's ability to convert alpha-linolenic acid is limited. Only about 5% of alpha-linolenic acid is converted to eicosapentaenoic acid, while less than 0.5% is converted to docosahexaenoic acid. As a result, vegetarians or vegans should make sure they consume enough food rich in alpha-linolenic acid to meet their omega-3 needs.
Remember to pay attention to the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, as a diet low in omega-3 but high in omega-6 can increase inflammation and the risk of disease.
Due to their many properties, chia seeds deliver a heavy dose of fiber and protein to the body with each serving. They are also an excellent plant-based source of the omega-3 fatty acid ALA.
Thanks to their omega-3s, fiber and protein, studies have shown that chia seeds can reduce the risk of chronic disease when consumed as part of a healthy diet. One study found that consuming a diet with chia seeds, soy protein, and oats reduced blood triglycerides, glucose intolerance, and inflammatory markers.
A 2007 study found that eating chia seeds lowers blood triglycerides and increases good HDL cholesterol and omega-3 levels in the blood. Just 28 grams of chia seeds can meet the daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids of 4915 mg.
The recommended amount of ALA for adults over 19 years of age is 1100 mg for women and 1600 mg for men. Increase your chia seed intake by eating a hearty chia pudding or sprinkling chia seeds on salads, yogurt or smoothies.
Ground chia seeds can also be used as a vegan substitute for eggs. Mix one tablespoon (7 grams) with 3 tablespoons of water for a good egg-based meal.
28 grams of chia seeds provide 4915 mg of the omega-3 fatty acids ALA, which is 307-447% of the recommended daily amount.
In addition to being high in vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber, Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Because cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts are so rich in nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids, they also have other great benefits. In fact, one study found that increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables was associated with a 16% lower risk of heart disease.
Half a cup or 44 grams of Brussels sprouts contains about 44 milligrams of ALA. On the other hand, cooked Brussels sprouts contain three times more omega-3. That's 135 milligrams per half-cup serving (78 grams).
Brussels sprouts can be roasted, steamed or fried in food.
Each half-cup or 78-gram serving of cooked Brussels sprouts contains 135 mg of ALA, or 12% of the recommended daily value.
Algal oil, an oil derived from algae, is one of the few plant sources of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Some studies show that it is comparable to seafood in terms of availability of EPA and DHA nutrients.
One study compared algal oil capsules with cooked salmon and found that both were equally absorbed.
Algae oil supplements, usually available in oil capsule form, typically provide 400-500 mg of DHA and EPA. In general, a daily intake of 300-900 mg of combined DHA and EPA is recommended.
Of course, liquid and powdered forms of algae are also available that can be added to drinks or smoothies for a dose of healthy fats.
Depending on the supplement, algal oil provides 400-500 mg of DHA and EPA, meeting 44-167% of the recommended daily amount. Liquid and powder types of seaweed are also available.
In addition to protein, magnesium, iron and zinc, hemp seeds consist of about 30% oil and contain a large amount of omega-3. Studies have shown that omega-3 found in hemp seeds can be beneficial for heart health. These seeds do this by preventing the formation of blood clots and helping the heart recover after a heart attack. Each 28 grams of hemp seeds contains approximately 6000 mg of ALA.
Sprinkle hemp seeds on yogurt or mix them into a smoothie for a little crunch and boost the omega-3 content of your snack.
You can also use hemp in your homemade granola and benefit from its properties. The use of hemp oil can also be used to provide a concentrated dose of omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming raw or roasted hemp seed is also possible, but due to its hard shell, it is recommended to take care of your teeth.
28 grams of hemp seeds contain 6000 mg of omega-3 fatty acids ALA, or 375-545% of the recommended daily amount.
Walnuts are full of healthy fats and omega-3 ALA fatty acids. In fact, walnuts are about 65% fat by weight.
Several studies have shown that walnuts can help improve brain health due to their omega-3 content. A 2011 study found that eating walnuts was associated with improvements in learning and memory.
Another study found that walnuts significantly improved memory, learning, motor development, and anxiety in people with Alzheimer's disease. Just one serving of walnuts can meet the entire day's need for omega-3 fatty acids, with 28 grams providing 2,542 milligrams.
Add walnuts to your homemade granola or cereal, sprinkle them on top of yogurt, or simply eat a handful as a snack to boost your ALA intake.
28 grams of walnuts contain 2542 mg of omega-3 fatty acids ALA, or 159-231% of the recommended daily amount.
Flaxseeds are great sources full of nutritious properties that provide adequate amounts of fiber, protein, magnesium and manganese in each serving. They are also an excellent source of omega-3.
Several studies have shown that the omega-3 fatty acid content in flaxseeds helps with heart health. Also, studies on flaxseed and flaxseed oil show a reduction in blood cholesterol. Another study found that flaxseed can significantly lower blood pressure, especially in those with high blood pressure.
28 grams of flaxseeds contain 6388 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids ALA, which exceeds the daily recommended amount.
Flaxseeds are easy to incorporate into your diet and can be a staple in vegan recipes. Mix one tablespoon (7 grams) of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for a healthy egg substitute in your diet.
In addition to its equality in the properties of cereal and oatmeal, flax seed is perfectly suitable for use in soup or salad.
28 grams of flaxseeds contain 6388 mg of omega-3 fatty acids ALA, or 400-580% of the recommended daily amount.
Soybean is one of the popular legumes whose origin is known in Asia. Food sources derived from soybeans, such as soybean oil, are a good source of other nutrients, including riboflavin, magnesium, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.
Soybean is usually served as part of a meal or salad, and its oil is well used in cooking and salad dressings. Soybean oil contains 0.923 grams of ALA per tablespoon. Tofu cheese is another food source derived from soy.
Soy is one of the sources of omega-3, and products derived from it, such as soybean oil, contain 0.923 grams of ALA per tablespoon.
The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are very important and are an important part of the diet. Consuming this substance improves mental ability and memory, prevents premature aging, etc.
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can still use the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. It is possible to meet your needs without seafood by including a few plant-based sources of omega-3s in your diet or choosing a plant-based omega-3 supplement and capsule. These 7 plant sources rich in omega-3 fatty acids will help you get this essential substance.