How do Omega-3’s convert?
A. When the diet has provided enough calories, vitamins, minerals, and ALA to the body, ALA can be converted into EPA. Approximately 15 percent of dietary ALA can be converted into EPA. From there, EPA can be converted into DHA. Under the very best of circumstances, conversion of ALA to DHA is only about 5%. For the average American, who tends to eat more saturated fat and fewer fruits and vegetables than is recommended, experts estimate that as little as 2-3% of ALA can be converted all the way into EPA and DHA. The other method for conversion of Omega- 3 is if a person has more DHA than their body needs, the excess DHA can be converted to EPA. Most Omega-3 experts recommend that all three Omega-3’s be included in the diet, as the conversion process is not immediate and is dependent on a diet that is not commonly consumed in our country.
