Omega-3s omega 3 fatty acids fat plant-based
3 min read
Historically, most Australians have met their omega-3 requirements from eating fish. However, many of our fish stocks globally are declining due to overfishing and this impacts entire ecosystems...

If you eat fish and seafood, it's important to ensure you're choosing sustainable fish species and the sustainability of a fish species is dependent on the specific population you have access to. This is why we can't give you a list of sustainable fish species. 

 

Vegan & vegetarian diets

Omega-3 fatty acid requirements can be met on a vegan or vegetarian diet. There are plant-based sources of omega 3 fatty acids. Good vegetarian and vegan friendly sources of omega-3s include flaxseed oil, walnuts, chia seeds, rapeseed (canola) oil, and hemp seeds.

 

If you don't eat these foods regularly, it may be beneficial to take a microalgae-based omega 3 supplement, however we encourage you to speak with your GP or an Accredited Practising Dietitian to get individualised advice based on your dietary intake.

 

How can I get omega-3 fats from plant-based sources?

An environmentally friendly way to get more omega-3s without increasing burden on our oceans, is to include plant-based sources of omega-3s in our diet. Below is a list of rich sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids and the amount in each:

 

  • 100mL flaxseed oil = 50g
  • 100g chia seeds = 18g
  • 100g hemps seeds = 10g
  • 100mL rapeseed (canola) oil = 8.4g
  • 100g walnuts = 6.3g

 

Eating fewer animal foods and wondering about omega-3s? Dr Amelia Harray's nutrition programs show you how to cover them with confidence.

 

Visit Dr Amelia Harray