Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat (“healthy fat”) that is important for heart health; a key benefit is helping to lower your triglycerides.

Omega-3 fatty acids also help all the cells in your body to function as they should. They’re a vital part of your cell membranes, helping to provide structure and supporting interactions between cells. While they’re important to all your cells, omega-3s are concentrated in high levels in cells in your eyes and brain.

The body doesn’t produce omega-3s on its own, so they must be obtained through diet.

Specific types of omega-3s include DHA and EPA (found in seafood) and ALA (found in plants). Fish is the best source of omega-3s.