Most people don’t get enough omega-3, study suggests

Omega-3 may be running low on three-quarters of the planet.

Most of us don’t consume enough fatty acids, which are essential for heart, brain and lifelong health, according to a comprehensive global review.

The analysis, conducted in collaboration with the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton and Holland and Barrett, found that 76 percent of people worldwide lack recommended levels of EPA and DHA, the two most important omega-3 fats.

Professor Anne Marie Minihane from UEA said: “We found large gaps between what is recommended and what most of us consume.

“To close this gap, we need easier, sustainable ways to get these important nutrients, such as foods or supplements enriched with omega-3s.”

He hopes the research will help scientists, clinicians and policymakers redraw nutrition messages based on the real world.

Found mainly in fatty fish like salmon, EPA and DHA support everything from babies’ brain development to adults’ cardiovascular health and may help reduce the risk of depression and cognitive decline later in life.

However, achieving optimal levels through diet alone is often unrealistic.

Dr. Holland and Barrett. Abbie Cawood said: “It can be difficult to achieve the recommended intake through diet alone… Ensuring people can meet their needs through diet or through supplementation is crucial at all stages of life.”

He added that supplementation is often necessary during pregnancy or in people who rarely eat fish.

The study also highlighted the confusing and contradictory patchwork of omega-3 guidelines worldwide.

Some countries recommend 250 mg of combined EPA and DHA per day for adults; others offer no clear guidance at all.

Pregnant women are generally recommended to consume an extra 100-200 mg of DHA per day.

Professor Philip Calder of Southampton said the underlying problem was simple: “What is clear is that most people do not follow this advice.”