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Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fatty acids that are important for normal physiological functions, including brain and cellular function. The main dietary omega-3 fatty acids are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ALA is found primarily in plant foods and oils, while EPA and DHA are found mainly in seafood and fish (NCCIH, 2026).
Author and reviewer
Editorial responsibilityReferences and further reading
- Mazza M, Capuano A, Mazza O, Panariello G. Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Brain Functions: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022;23(21):12670. doi:10.3390/ijms232112670. View source
- Calderón-Ramírez LY, et al. Roles of the Unsaturated Fatty Acid Docosahexaenoic Acid in the Central Nervous System: Molecular and Cellular Insights. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022;23(10):5707. doi:10.3390/ijms23105707. View source
How to cite this entry
CNP (2026). Omega-3 Fatty Acids. In CNP Encyclopedia Editorial Board (Eds.), Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology. The Center for Nutritional Psychology.
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