Roll Call

Alpha-Linolenic Acid — answers to ALA, plant-based omega-3

Plant

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An essential omega-3 fatty acid found in flaxseed, chia, walnuts, and canola oil; the body converts a small portion of it into EPA and DHA.

Why it’s used

Taken to help meet omega-3 fatty acid intake and to support cardiovascular health.

What the evidence is for

supporting cardiovascular health as part of usual dietary intake.

What the evidence says

NIH ODS notes that ALA intake is associated with modestly lower risk of some cardiovascular outcomes in observational research, but conversion to EPA and DHA in the body is limited, and clinical trial evidence for direct benefit is less consistent than for marine-source omega-3s.

Dose studied

1.1–1.6 g — adult Adequate Intake, per NIH ODS.

Context

NIH ODS lists an Adequate Intake of about 1.6 g/day for adult men and 1.1 g/day for adult women, reflecting typical dietary intake rather than a therapeutic dose.

Educational information, not medical or safety advice. Consult a professional for allergies or medical concerns.