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Most people across the world are not getting enough omega-3, leaving a major gap between scientific recommendations and daily diets, according to a study. The three main forms of omega-3 are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).  Researchers lay stress on the critical role of EPA and DHA across all stages of life and point out that food alone often can’t meet needs and the challenges involved in reaching healthy intake levels.

It highlights the need for clearer global guidelines and easier access to sustainable mega-3 sources.

Researchers found that the intake and recommended levels varied in a big way. They inferred that the gap could be closed through sustainable ways to get these important nutrients -- like foods enriched with omega-3s or supplements. These changes could help more people enjoy the health benefits linked to higher intakes.

Omega-3s play a vital role in health and people should meet the required levels through food or supplementation, especially in pregnancy and those with low fish intakes.

The study was done on healthy populations to understand the required level of omega 3 and to see whether people were meeting it.

Omega-3 consumption supports a healthy lifestyle throughout all stages of life -- from reducing the chance of pre-term birth and supporting visual and cognitive development in infants, right through to improving cardiovascular health and immune function. It is also associated with reduced risk of depression and cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease.

The study found that the most frequently recommended intake for adults is 250 mg per day of combined EPA and DHA, with an additional 100-200 mg of DHA advised for pregnant women. These targets can be achieved by eating more oily fish, such as salmon or mackerel, or through supplementation where needed.

The paper also identified challenges that different populations have in achieving current omega-3 recommendations, such as difficulties in meeting oily fish recommendations due to low seafood consumption, or sustainability concerns, as well as some populations having limited access to supplementation advice.

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