Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is the best dietary recommendation for heart-protective effects from omega-3 fatty acids?

1. Start taking 1,000-3,000 mg/d of omega-3 fatty acid supplements.

2. Eat at least 2 servings of only wild-caught fish per week.

3. Supplement her diet with alfalfa sprouts, chia seeds, and flaxseed oil.

4. Eat at least 2 servings of fatty fish per week.

The correct answer is: Eat at least 2 servings of fatty fish per week.

The best dietary recommendation for achieving heart-protective effects from omega-3 fatty acids is to eat at least two servings of fatty fish per week. Consuming fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, and herring, provides a rich source of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are essential omega-3 fatty acids known to have beneficial effects on heart health. These compounds help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and may improve overall cardiovascular health. Regular consumption of fatty fish not only contributes to the intake of omega-3s but also supplies a variety of other nutrients, including high-quality protein, vitamin D, and selenium, further enhancing its health benefits. The recommendation emphasizes whole food sources, which are often more effective than supplements because they contain a balance of nutrients and bioactive compounds. While taking omega-3 supplements can be beneficial in some situations, they may not always provide the same health benefits as whole food sources and can be less effective if not paired with other healthy dietary practices. Alfalfa sprouts, chia seeds, and flaxseed oil do contain omega-3 fatty acids, primarily ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which