摘要：w-3 fatty acids have specific physiological functions that they are necessary for healthy growth and development. w-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, because humans can not synthesize these fatty acids, which need to be provided by the diet. The most common co-3 fatty acids are ct-linolenic acid (ALA, C18:3, w-3) found mainly in plants, and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5, w-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6, w-3) found almost in marine products. ALA is metabolized to EPA and DHA by elongation of the chain and introduction of double bonds in body. Epidemiologic studies have shown a correlation between consumption of fish or other sources of dietary w-3 fatty acids and decreasing of cardiovascular diseases. Also some researchers suggest that w-3 fatty acids may have beneficial effects on the prevention and treating of certain types of cancers and inflammatory diseases.
