Five affordable alternatives to salmon for getting omega-3 fatty acids
Getting omega-3 fatty acids into your diet doesn't require buying expensive salmon — these nutrients can also be found in several simple, cheaper foods that are easy to include in everyday meals.
Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fatty acids essential for the normal functioning of the heart, brain, blood vessels and other bodily systems. Nutrition experts highlight three main types of omega-3 fatty acids — ALA, EPA and DHA.
Where to find omega-3s
EPA and DHA are found mainly in fatty fish such as salmon, which is often seen as the primary source of omega-3s but also tends to be a pricier product. ALA, on the other hand, is found in plant-based foods — seeds, nuts and certain vegetable oils.
This means consumers looking to supply their bodies with omega-3 fatty acids don't necessarily need to opt for expensive fish. Alternatives can be found among relatively cheap and readily available everyday foods that can easily be added to a regular diet.
A balanced diet that includes various sources of omega-3 fatty acids helps maintain the health of the body's systems without straining a family's budget on costly products.
