Omega-3 fatty acids are probably one of those terms you’ve heard about but don’t really know what they are…but, you’re pretty sure they’re good for you. And, you’d be correct. Not only are they good for you, they’re essential for your body to work properly. While there are several different types of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the two that are most talked about and are often found in health food and dietary supplement stores. EPA and DHA are typically the two main omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements. EPA and DHA are mainly found in cold water fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel. EPA and DHA are also one of the main reasons why nutrition professionals are such advocates for eating seafood and fatty fish several times a week.

Okay, interesting facts, but, this is a weight loss-based blog, right? So, let’s get to it. While many studies on fish oil supplementation (or their primary components, EPA and DHA) have focused on their heart health benefits (check out some research we published on EPA, DHA and cardiac outcomes a while back), research shows they’re important for many bodily processes including brain health, inflammation management and eye health.

And…maybe waist size.

Two groups of scientists analyzed intervention studies designed to determine whether omega-3 fatty acid supplements (e.g. EPA, DHA, fish oils) or fish oil supplements affect excess body weight. Both concluded that taking these supplements do not affect body weight; however, both analyses concluded that these supplements can reduce waist size. More research is needed, but this may just be another reason to make sure you’re getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. In the mean time, it doesn’t hurt to get some omega-3 fatty acids the old-fashioned way: diet.