An omega-3 fatty acid is one that has its first double bond at the <u>methyl </u>end of the molecule.
Explanation:
Fatty acids will have a methyl end and a carboxylic acid end and the long carbon chain.
The number of hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon atoms depends upon its saturation type – saturated or unsaturated fatty acid.
The main advantage of the unsaturated fatty acids is that they have fewer hydrogen atoms because they are replaced with a double bond between the carbon atoms.
There are both short chain (carbon atoms 18 or less) or long chain (more than 20) fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Depending upon the carbon chain length, the first C=C double bond occurs between the third and fourth carbon atom from its methyl end on the carbon chain of the omega-3 fatty acid.
Omega-3 fatty acids are recommended by dieticians due to its immense health benefits especially for the heart since it reduces blood triglyceride level, blood pressure, plaque formation, and the risk factors for heart attacks or failure. These are also good for the eyes, to treat mental depression, and for fetal brain development during pregnancy.
