Omega foods

Eat these fatty acids for heart and bone health

By Ashley Griffin Gartland

April 2, 2007

So you’ve probably been seeing the sciencey-sounding phrase “omega-3” on all kinds of food products lately. Essential fatty acids that we must acquire by eating, omega-3s are common in fish and in plants such as flaxseed, soybeans, canola, and walnuts. They’re known to be anti-inflammatory and good for your heart. They may also be important, it turns out, for bone health.

Previous studies have only observed the effects of oil supplements on health. Now researchers at Penn State (partially funded by the California Walnut Association) have monitored the effects of whole foods containing omega-3s.

Their findings? That, while the omega-3s found in fatty fish like salmon and mackerel reduce the risk of heart disease, plant-derived omega-3s may be beneficial for ensuring bone health in adults. In particular, the study subjects showed a significant decrease in bone loss while eating the strict diet of the study.

Want to hedge your bets? Eat fish and plants.