Does omega-3 have another name?

January 8, 2026 •

3 min read

The body cannot produce omega-3 fatty acids on its own, making them essential nutrients that must be obtained through diet. So, does omega-3 have another name? In fact, 'omega-3' is a broad category for several related fats, each with specific names and sources.

Quick Summary

The term omega-3 is a family name for polyunsaturated fatty acids like ALA, EPA, and DHA. They are also known scientifically as n-3 fatty acids and originate from both plant and marine sources.

Key Points

Omega-3 is a class of fats: It is not a single compound but a family of related polyunsaturated fatty acids.
ALA, EPA, and DHA are the main types: The most important individual omega-3s are Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).
Alternative scientific name is n-3: In scientific literature, omega-3s are often referred to as n-3 fatty acids.
Sources vary by type: ALA comes primarily from plants (e.g., flaxseed), while EPA and DHA are found mainly in marine life (e.g., fish).
Conversion is inefficient: The body's conversion of plant-based ALA into marine-based EPA and DHA is very limited.
EPA and DHA are key for health benefits: The direct use of EPA and DHA by the body provides the most significant anti-inflammatory, heart, and brain health benefits.
Marine algae are the origin: The ultimate source of both EPA and DHA is microalgae, which are consumed by fish.

Omega-3, n-3, and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids belong to a larger classification of fats known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The chemical distinction lies in the number of double bonds in the fatty acid chain. Polyunsaturated means there are multiple double bonds. The 'omega-3' designation specifically indicates that the first double bond is positioned three carbon atoms away from the methyl, or 'omega', end of the chain. This is why you will sometimes see the scientific shorthand n-3 fatty acids, where 'n' stands for omega.

The three most common forms of omega-3

While the term 'omega-3' is a convenient shorthand, most of the health benefits are attributed to three specific types. To accurately answer the question, "does omega-3 have another name?", you must look at these individual components: Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA).

1. Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA)

This is the most common omega-3 in the average Western diet and is primarily found in plant sources. The human body can convert ALA into the longer-chain EPA and DHA, but this process is notoriously inefficient. Therefore, while ALA contributes to overall omega-3 intake, it is not a sufficient source on its own to meet the body's needs for EPA and DHA. Some of the best food sources include:

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil
Chia seeds
Walnuts
Canola and soybean oil

2. Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA)

This is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid found in marine sources like fatty fish. It plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation and is known for its cardiovascular benefits. Fish and other marine life get EPA from consuming microalgae. Common sources include:

Salmon
Mackerel
Herring
Sardines

3. Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)

Also a long-chain omega-3, DHA is vital for brain development and function, particularly in the retina and cerebral cortex. Like EPA, it is derived from marine algae that travel up the food chain to fish. For those on a plant-based diet, algae oil is a direct and effective source of DHA. Excellent food sources include:

Fatty fish
Algae oil supplements

Comparison of Omega-3 Sources: Plant vs. Marine


Feature	Plant Sources (ALA)	Marine Sources (EPA & DHA)
Primary Omega-3	Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA)	Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
Metabolism	Must be converted by the body, which is inefficient	Used directly by the body for biological functions
Key Benefits	Provides general essential fatty acid support; conversion yields some EPA/DHA	Offers strong anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, and neurological benefits
Dietary Importance	Good for supplementing ALA needs but insufficient for EPA/DHA	Crucial for ensuring adequate levels of functional EPA and DHA
Common Foods	Flaxseed, walnuts, chia seeds, canola oil	Salmon, mackerel, herring, algae oil

Choosing the right omega-3 for you

Since omega-3s come in different forms with varying levels of potency and bioavailability, your dietary choices are important. For heart and brain health, focusing on marine-based sources of EPA and DHA is the most direct and effective strategy. This can be achieved by incorporating more fatty fish into your diet. For those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, supplements derived from algae oil are a reliable alternative for getting a direct supply of EPA and DHA.

If you prefer to get your omega-3s exclusively from plant-based sources like flaxseed or chia seeds, it is important to remember that your body's conversion rate to the active forms is low. While these foods still offer significant nutritional value, they may not provide the same potent effects as marine-derived omega-3s. Ultimately, the best approach depends on individual dietary habits and health goals, but understanding the specific names and roles of ALA, EPA, and DHA is the key to making an informed decision.

Conclusion

In summary, does omega-3 have another name? Yes, but it is not a simple one-for-one substitution. The broader term includes specific types like ALA, EPA, and DHA, each with its own chemical name and primary source. Furthermore, it can be scientifically referred to as n-3 fatty acids or a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA). While the three main types offer distinct benefits, the long-chain EPA and DHA from marine sources are particularly valued for their direct benefits to cardiovascular and brain health. By understanding these different names and sources, consumers can better navigate their nutritional needs and choose the right dietary strategy for optimal health.

More resources

For additional scientific information on the different types of omega-3s, visit the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health website.

Frequently Asked Questions

The term 'omega-3' refers to the position of the first double bond in the fatty acid molecule's carbon chain, which is located on the third carbon from the omega (methyl) end.

No, not all omega-3s are created equal. The most well-documented health benefits, particularly for heart and brain health, are associated with the longer-chain EPA and DHA. The plant-based ALA offers some benefits but requires inefficient conversion by the body.

While flaxseed oil is a great source of the omega-3 ALA, it is not a direct substitute for fish oil. Fish oil contains EPA and DHA, which are more readily used by the body. The body's conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA is inefficient.

Vegetarians and vegans can get a direct source of EPA and DHA by consuming supplements made from marine algae oil. Algae oil provides these long-chain fatty acids without relying on fish.

Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential. However, the modern Western diet often has a disproportionately high amount of omega-6s, which can promote inflammation. A balanced intake is important to regulate the body's inflammatory processes.

Both fish oil and krill oil contain EPA and DHA. However, krill oil often contains the omega-3s in a phospholipid form, which some studies suggest may be more bioavailable than the triglyceride form typically found in fish oil.

Yes. The FDA has approved several prescription drugs containing high-dose, purified omega-3 derivatives, such as ethyl eicosapentaenoic acid (e.g., Vascepa), for managing very high triglyceride levels.