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Omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 are three types of fatty acids.

Each offers health benefits, but you need omega-3 fatty acids the most.

Keeping your intake of omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fats within a healthy ratio is essential.

Woman holding yellow omega-3 nutritional supplement capsule, close-up of hand

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Omega-3 fatty acidsare important throughout the lifecycle.

They are widely available in plant-based foods like nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.

Research shows that omega-9 fats, likeoleicacid, may help reduce inflammation and aid in heart health.

Common omega-9 sources include vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds.

Are Omega-3, -6, and -9 Safe for Everyone?

Though omega-fatty acid supplements are generally considered safe, they may not be safe for everyone.

As a result, some supplement products may not contain the ingredients listed on the label.

Whenchoosing a supplement, look for products independently tested or certified by organizations such asNSF,U.S.

Pharmacopeia (USP), orConsumerLab.com.

These omega fats may benefit heart health, brain health, cancer, development, inflammation, and more.

Omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fats are generally considered safe for most people.

However, side effects and interactions may be possible.

MedlinePlus.Omega-3 fats - good for your heart.

National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.Omega-3 fatty acids: fact sheet for health professionals.

2021;13(7):2421. doi:10.3390/nu13072421

MedlinePlus.Omega-6 fatty acids.

Farag MA, Gad MZ.Omega-9 fatty acids: potential roles in inflammation and cancer management.J Genet Eng Biotechnol.

2022;14(10):e30091.

2021;118(5):453-459.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.Omega-3 supplements: what it’s crucial that you know.