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Snips about SNPs: Omega-3’s from plants

Omega-3 fatty acids are good for you in several ways, but one big thing we gain from omega 3’s is DHA and EPA for brain health. These two fatty acids have links to lower heart disease and better brains.

The body can convert plant-based omega 3’s from flaxseed and chia seeds into DHA and EPA. But for some people, this conversion process is extremely limited. Instead, they may need to get DHA and EPA directly through fish or algal oil.

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Check your genetic data for rs174546 (23andMe v4, v5;  AncestryDNA)

  • T/T: low FADS1 enzyme activity; decreased risk of coronary artery disease due to lower arachidonic acid; benefits more from EPA/DHA intake for lower triglycerides[ref][ref][ref][ref]
  • C/T: lower FADS1 enzyme activity, decreased risk of coronary artery disease, may benefit more from EPA/DHA intake for lowering high triglycerides
  • C/C: typical FADS1 activity

Members: Your genotype for rs174546 is .

Curious to learn more about Omega-3’s and the FADS1 gene? Check out the full-length article.

*SNP stands for Single Nucleotide Polymorphism, which is when one of the nucleotide bases (the A, C, G, or Ts) is replaced by a different nucleotide base in a gene. 

Want to know more about your genes? Read through all the Snips about SNPs


About the Author:
Debbie Moon is the founder of Genetic Lifehacks. Fascinated by the connections between genes, diet, and health, her goal is to help you understand how to apply genetics to your diet and lifestyle decisions. Debbie has a BS in engineering from Colorado School of Mines and an MSc in biological sciences from Clemson University. Debbie combines an engineering mindset with a biological systems approach to help you understand how genetic differences impact your optimal health.