Vegan Guide
VEGAN GUIDE

Nutrition

Where do vegans get omega-3?

Short answer

ALA from flax, walnuts and rapeseed oil. EPA/DHA can come from algae, not fish. ALA conversion is limited, so algae is a practical extra.

Ground flax, chia and walnuts give you ALA – the base. For EPA and DHA (the more active forms), consider algal oil – available in capsules, no fishy aftertaste.

You do not have to take it daily if you eat flax regularly. In pregnancy and while breastfeeding, an algal DHA supplement is recommended – agree the dose with your doctor.

Sources

  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids — Fact Sheet
  2. Vegetarian, vegan and plant-based diet — British Dietetic Association
  3. DGE position on plant-based diets (Ernährungs Umschau, 2024)

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