Diet, Disease, and Dollars
Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are widely recognized as essential for heart and brain health. But what happens when diets lack them? According to research published in PLOS Medicine, the cost is not only measured in poor health outcomes, but also in billions of dollars in societal expenses.
The study, led by Dr. Thiago Veiga Jardim (Harvard) and Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian (Tufts University), found that 10 diet-related factors account for nearly 20% of U.S. healthcare spending on ischemic heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Among these, low intake of seafood omega-3s stood out as one of the top contributors, responsible for $12.7 billion annually—second only to low consumption of nuts and seeds.
Measuring the Problem: Omega-3 Deficiency in the Stroke Belt
Additional research reinforces these concerns. A study in Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids measured the Omega-3 Index (O3I) in more than 2,000 individuals living in the U.S. “stroke belt,” a region known for significantly higher stroke rates.
The findings? The average Omega-3 Index was only 4.4%, far below the recommended 8–12% cardioprotective range. Dr. William S. Harris, co-author of the study, concluded that raising EPA and DHA levels could be a key step toward lowering cardiovascular disease risk in this population.
Best Ways to Get Enough Omega-3s
Reaching healthy omega-3 levels isn’t complicated, but it does require intentional choices. The richest natural sources are fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, anchovies, cod liver, and herring. Most health authorities—including the American Heart Association and the World Health Organization—recommend eating two to three servings of oily fish per week, equal to about 250–500 mg of EPA and DHA daily.
For those who don’t eat fish regularly, high-quality omega-3 supplements are a reliable alternative:
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Fish oil: The most common and well-studied, typically delivering both EPA and DHA.
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Krill oil: Rich in omega-3s and phospholipids, making absorption easier.
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Algal oil: A vegan-friendly source of long-chain omega-3s, especially DHA.
How to Know If You’re Low: The Omega-3 Index Test
Because it’s hard to gauge intake by diet alone, the Omega-3 Index blood test offers a clear picture of omega-3 status. With more than 200 published studies behind it, this test has become the gold standard for evaluating omega-3 levels.
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Optimal range: 8–12%
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Average U.S. adult: ~4–5%
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Associated benefits: Lower cardiovascular risk, healthier aging, improved inflammatory response
Surprisingly, even physicians often underestimate their omega-3 intake. In one survey, U.S. family doctors assumed they were meeting requirements, but blood testing revealed an average Omega-3 Index of just 5.2%.
Why Public Health Needs Omega-3 Awareness
Despite decades of evidence, nutrition education remains limited in many medical schools, with fewer than 30% meeting the minimum recommended hours. This gap leaves both patients and physicians underinformed about how profoundly diet—and omega-3s in particular—can prevent chronic disease.
Experts like Dr. Harris argue that stronger education, better testing, and clearer dietary policies could dramatically reduce both healthcare costs and disease burden.
Final Thoughts
Omega-3 fatty acids are more than just nutrients—they’re a powerful tool for disease prevention and long-term health. The numbers make it clear: inadequate omega-3 intake costs society billions every year while leaving individuals at greater risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
By regularly consuming omega-3-rich fish or high-quality supplements and monitoring blood levels with the Omega-3 Index test, individuals can take control of their health while helping reduce broader economic burdens.