Do you get enough omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids play important roles in our health, yet recent research has identified that intakes remain below recommended levels for many of us.
 
A review involving the University of Southampton, published in Nutrition Research Reviews, found that 76% of people globally may not be meeting the recommended intakes for omega-3 fatty acids. This gap is particularly relevant during pregnancy, as omega-3 fatty acids support normal fetal development.

In Ireland specifically, data from the National Adult Nutrition Survey II suggest that fish intake remains relatively low, consumed by only 34% of adults aged 19–64 years and 41% of adults aged over 65 years.

Why omega-3s are getting attention

Oily fish has long been recognised as a valued part of a balanced diet, providing vitamin D, iodine, selenium, and other important minerals. However, increasing attention is being given to the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) because of their established roles in normal cardiovascular, brain, and visual function.

For heart, brain, and vision

EPA and DHA are the main omega-3 fatty acids and are associated with important health benefits:

• 250 mg EPA + DHA daily supports normal heart function
• 250 mg DHA daily contributes to brain function and normal vision

Supplements can help

There are many reasons people don’t eat enough fish, including taste and preference, habits, and convenience. For those who prefer not to eat seafood, a supplement like BioActive Omega-3 is an easy way to help reach the recommended omega-3 intake every day.

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Better absorption

BioActive Omega-3 is especially effective because its omega-3s are in free fatty acid form, which the body absorbs faster and more efficiently than the triglyceride form of omega-3s found in fish. The digestive step that normally breaks down omega-3s in fish has been bypassed, improving bioavailability and making it easier for your body to benefit from them.

^{Source:
 
Calder PC, Cawood AL, James C, Page F, Putnam S, Minihane AM. An overview of national and international long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake recommendations for healthy populations. Nutr Res Rev. 2025 Nov 24;39:e6. doi: 10.1017/S0954422425100279. PMID: 41277237.
 
Irish Universities Nutrition Alliance (IUNA) (2024) National Adult Nutrition Survey II: Summary Report. Available online at www.iuna.net}