Your body also needs two specific fatty acids from your diet: Alpha-linolenic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid (though one that comes from plants like flaxseed or walnuts instead of fish) that your body needs but can’t make on its own. Linoleic acid is an omega-6 fatty acid that you also need in your diet (available in seeds and other plant oils).
The main fats found in brain tissue, EPA and DHA, are derived metabolically from ALA. Basically ALA → DHA → EPA. But the conversion rate is really low, so it’s probably good to supplement oils containing these (and check the label, as I’ve seen many omega-3 supplements which provide ALA without the DHA/EPA).
The main fats found in brain tissue, EPA and DHA, are derived metabolically from ALA. Basically ALA → DHA → EPA. But the conversion rate is really low, so it’s probably good to supplement oils containing these (and check the label, as I’ve seen many omega-3 supplements which provide ALA without the DHA/EPA).