omega-3

adjective ome·ga-3 \ ō-ˈmā-gə-ˈthrē , -ˈmē- , -ˈme- \

Definition of omega-3

:being or composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids that have the final double bond in the hydrocarbon chain between the third and fourth carbon atoms from the end of the molecule opposite that of the carboxyl group and that are found especially in fish, fish oils, green leafy vegetables, and some nuts and vegetable oils — compare omega-6

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omega-3

noun

Recent Examples of omega-3 from the Web

These alterations allow the microbes to produce the omega-3 fatty acids necessary for healthy metabolism in humans.

— ben panko, Smithsonian, "Could Astronauts Harvest Nutrients From Their Waste?," 24 Aug. 2017
Its omega-3 fatty acids exert potent anti-inflammatory effects on the hair and scalp, reducing dryness, itch, and flaking.

— jihan forbes, Allure, "Review: Sashapure's Perfectly Defining Curl Cream," 17 Aug. 2017
Eating fish is usually a better option than taking a pill, especially fish like salmon, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

— david becker, Philly.com, "A cardiologist's top 10 things to know about fish oil supplements," 16 Aug. 2017
Because of zucchini's high water and fiber content, its consumption is considered by nutritionists as a great way to stay (healthily) full; the nutrient-dense fruit even contains omega-3 fatty acids.

— birmingham magazine, AL.com, "How to cook with summer's favorite squash," 10 Aug. 2017
Your doc may recommend taking an omega-3 fatty acid supplement and, if that doesn't do the trick, can place punctal plugs in the ducts that drain your tears and prescribe medicated eye drops.

— korin miller, SELF, "8 Eye Problems You Should Probably Get Checked Out," 1 Aug. 2017
By substituting antioxidant-rich strawberries and hemp seeds loaded with omega-3 fatty acids into the traditional mix, the dish transforms into a summer skin savior that even kids will love.

— emily watson, Philly.com, "Summer skin from the inside out," 13 July 2017
Beyond that, Snyder advises clients to arrive at the bar fully hydrated and, before drinking, to eat foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like chia seeds and leafy greens.

— jenna rennert, Vogue, "This Healthy Cocktail Is Hangover-Proof, According to Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder," 6 July 2017
Dr. Fiechtner points out that vegan diets are also low in omega-3 fatty acids, which are commonly found in fish or eggs.

— korin miller, Fox News, "Alicia Silverstone feeds her son a vegan diet," 19 June 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'omega-3.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of omega-3

1967

Medical Dictionary

omega-3

adjective ome·ga-3 \ -ˈthrē \

medical Definition of omega-3

:being or composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids in which the first double bond in the hydrocarbon chain occurs between the third and fourth carbon atoms from the end of the molecule most distant from the carboxylic acid group and which are found especially in fish (as tuna and salmon), fish oils, green leafy vegetables, and some vegetable oils

—

omega-3

noun

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omega-3

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