Tag: Conversion rates

While the body can convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), studies show this process is highly inefficient, with typical conversion rates for adults being very low. This inefficiency raises critical questions for individuals, particularly those on plant-based diets, about how much ALA get converted to EPA and DHA and whether they are meeting their nutritional needs.

Approximately 60% of the fats in chia seeds are the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). However, the crucial question is not whether chia seeds contain omega-3s, but can you get DHA from chia seeds, the omega-3 with the most direct benefits for brain and eye health?