Polyunsaturated fats are essential fats, meaning that our bodies need them to function properly. Among their primary functions are building cell membranes and the covering of nerves. Polyunsaturated fats are necessary for muscle movement and blood clotting. Two main types of polyunsaturated fats are omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in our health: they reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and stroke. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for our cognitive health. They help to prevent and treat depression and bipolar disorder, balance our mood and prevent us from getting tired too quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids protect us against dementia and memory loss and are essential for healthy joints and skin. The best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, anchovies, herring, sardines, oysters, lake trout, pole and tuna) and plant sources such as walnuts, Brussels sprouts, spinach, kale, flaxseed, parsley and algae.

Omega-6 fatty acids also protect us from heart disease. They can be found in different vegetable oils, e.g. sunflower, walnut, safflower, soybean, and corn oils.