Because nutrition is important to our lives, it is crucial to know some of the available nutrients beyond minerals and vitamins are and how each of those nutrients impacts our health. One of the most important critical nutrients are fatty acids that contain omega 3. Those fatty acids are a a big part of the building blocks for our brain tissues and nerve cells.

The main source for omega 3 fatty acids come from cold water fish, such as cod, mackerel and salmon. Fish liver oil contains omega 3, but there is an excess of vitamin A and this should not be relied on as your only source. The fleshy area of fish contains omega 3 oil and has less or no vitamin A at all.

Salmon is not only delicious but is a fish that contains an extremely high level of omega 3. Three to five servings a week are easy to include in a healthy diet and will provide you with all the omega 3 that you need. While not as rich as fish, walnuts can provide an alternative source for people on a vegetarian diet.

Consuming omega 3 fatty acids in food or as supplements produces the benefit of lowering cholesterol levels. In addition, triglyceride levels are reduced, another link in the chain that helps keep your heart and cardiovascular system in top shape. These fatty acids are sometimes referred to as "super unsaturated" fats and they are good for you, as long as you don't overdo it.

Another benefit of omega 3 from salmon or other fish or as a supplement is that it makes platelets less "sticky" and helps prevent unwanted blood clots. (Those taking blood thinners or other prescription medications should always check with their doctors before taking any supplements.) This is believed to decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Omega 3 supplements are most often found in the form of fish oil capsules. These fatty acids are being studied as a means of providing relief to migraine sufferers, in fact, some studies have shown that up to 87% of patients get migraine relief from omega 3 supplements. This is not surprising in light of their purportedly powerful anti inflammatory effects.