Widespread omega-3 deficiency is a serious health problem

Seventy-six percent of the world’s population does not get enough of the essential omega-3 fatty acids. This represents a serious public health concern, as insufficient intake throughout life is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, skin problems, depression, menstrual pain, dry eyes, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and various other conditions. These findings are highlighted in a large population study published in Nutrition Research Reviews. The researchers also emphasize that fatty fish and fish oil supplements are particularly valuable sources of omega-3 fatty acids due to their content of the biologically active forms EPA and DHA.

Cell membranes contain the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which regulate numerous metabolic processes. Throughout life, omega-3 fatty acids play important roles in brain development, cognitive function, mood, vision, cardiovascular health, skin health, regulation of inflammation, and many other physiological functions. In the past, people consumed significantly more omega-3 fatty acids, especially through fatty fish and shellfish. However, changing dietary habits and the widespread consumption of farmed fish are key reasons why intake has declined dramatically. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in flaxseed oil, canola oil, walnuts, and chia seeds. However, these sources contain ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), which many individuals convert inefficiently into the biologically active forms EPA and DHA found in fish and seafood.
The new UK study was conducted as a collaboration between the University of East Anglia, the University of Southampton, and Holland & Barrett. It is the first study to assess, on both national and global levels, population intakes of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA throughout life in relation to various dietary recommendations. The researchers collected data from the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) and from national Food-Based Dietary Guidelines in different countries.
Because official recommendations for omega-3 intake vary from country to country, this has created considerable confusion. Nevertheless, many health authorities recommend that adults consume 250-500 mg of EPA and DHA daily. Pregnant women are generally advised to consume at least 100-200 mg of DHA per day, particularly to support the development of the baby’s brain and eyes. These amounts can be obtained by eating fatty fish such as herring, wild salmon, and mackerel, possibly accompanied by a fish oil supplement.
However, the study revealed that the majority of the world’s population (76 percent) does not meet the recommended intake of EPA and DHA. This increases the risk of a wide range of diseases and complications, including preterm birth, skin problems, dry eyes, menstrual pain, depression, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and more. The widespread deficiency of these essential omega-3 fatty acids therefore has serious consequences for global public health.

Causes of the global omega-3 deficiency and proposed solutions

Many population groups struggle to obtain optimal amounts of EPA and DHA, either because they lack access to fatty fish, dislike its taste, find it too expensive, or have concerns about animal welfare and sustainability and therefore refrain from eating seafood.
Given the substantial gap between official recommendations and actual lifetime intake of EPA and DHA, the researchers suggest that easier and more affordable access to fatty fish is needed. Other possible strategies include fortifying foods with omega-3 fatty acids or using fish oil supplements to meet the body’s requirements.
The researchers hope that their study will help inform other scientists, health authorities, physicians, policymakers, the food industry, and the dietary supplement industry, leading to greater awareness of this global health issue.

Official recommendations and therapeutic needs

As mentioned, official daily recommendations generally range from 250-500 mg of EPA and DHA and are intended, among other things, to support cardiovascular health. Individuals suffering from joint pain, arthritis, depression, or other conditions characterized by chronic inflammation may have higher requirements for omega-3 fatty acids. In such cases, many people benefit from daily supplementation corresponding to two to four standard fish oil capsules.
At the same time, it is advisable to reduce the intake of omega-6 fatty acids from seed oils, margarine, mayonnaise, dressings, junk food, and other industrially processed sources, as excessive omega-6 intake can interfere with the body’s effective utilization of omega-3 fatty acids.
In the following article, you can read more about the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and the importance of maintaining a proper balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

• The health benefits of fish oil

References:

Calder, P et al. An overview of national and international long chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake recommendations for healthy populations. 2025

University of East Anglia. Most of the world falls short on omega-3 intake. News Medical Life Sciences. December,2025