Omega-3 fatty acids: their essential role in the human body, pediatric recommendations, optimal sources, and dosage in dietary intake
Mateusz Pawlak
2026-03-25
7 min. read
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Polyunsaturated fatty acids belonging to the omega-3 family constitute a fundamental component for the proper functioning of the human organism. The systematic inclusion of fish sourced from seas and oceans in one’s diet should be regarded as one of the cornerstones of balanced nutrition. The purpose of this approach is to continuously meet the body’s requirements for these compounds, which—despite their pivotal role in vital biological processes—cannot be endogenously synthesized by the human body. Such a dietary strategy significantly contributes to reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and malignancies, thereby serving a preventive function in the context of the most severe contemporary lifestyle-related illnesses.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 acids belong to the NNKT (essential unsaturated fatty acids) group. The same group includes omega-6s, which are representative of linoleic acid and arachidonic acid found in plants. Among the omega-3s, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapenta (EPA) and doxyhexane (DHA) are the most prominent. Their name comes from their dual binding position, which in their case occurs at the end of the third carbon atom. The human body cannot be so rich in omega-3 acid, which is why they should be supplied with the same omega-3 fatty acid.
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