mega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) are polyunsaturated good fats found in oil from cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel and tuna, or in seeds of flax, walnuts, hemp and other plants. They're classified as essential because your body needs them for complete health, yet cannot produce them on its own. They must be obtained through diet or supplementation.
Omega-3 EFAs play an important part in cardiovascular wellness by helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, blood pressure and heartbeat. They're believed to reduce the "stickiness" of blood cells (also known as platelet aggregation), promoting healthy circulation. The American Heart Association recommends consuming fatty fish at least twice a week, or that omega-3 EFAs be obtained through regular supplementation, for heart health protection.