In honor of National Salmon Month, we shall discuss one of the primary benefits of salmon, it's high content of Omega-3 Fatty Acids.

What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
A very simple explanation of this term is that it is a type of fat found in certain foods, especially cold water fishes. Omega-3 fatty acids have a unique chemical structure that enables them to offer many health benefits.

If you are interested in a more specific answer, the location of the first double bond in Omega-3 fatty acids is at the 3rd carbon of the carbon chain.

What do they do?
These fatty acids lower blood triglyceride levels, decrease platelet stickiness, and keep the arteries clean from fatty deposits. How this is done is not well understood.

Where do you get them?
Cold water fishes are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids. This group includes almon, mackerel, halibut, sardines, and herring.

Do you need a supplement?
People who consume less than 8 ounces of fatty fish weekly, such as salmon, should consider taking about 1 to 3 grams of fish oil supplements daily.