Example of health of individual can be DHA which isĀ  created by algae, concentrated in predator fish but also reached by genetic modification of oilseed rape (canola).

The conversion of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is the primary omega-3 fatty acid found in oilseed rape (canola) oil, to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the human body is indeed relatively inefficient. As a result, to fulfill the minimal daily intake of DHA through ALA, you would need to consume a significant amount of ALA-rich foods. Here are some general considerations:

  1. DHA Requirements: The recommended daily intake of DHA varies depending on factors like age, sex, and specific health conditions. However, a commonly cited amount is around 250-500 milligrams per day for adults.

  2. ALA to DHA Conversion: The conversion rate of ALA to DHA is quite low, estimated at less than 1%. This means that for every 100 milligrams of ALA consumed, less than 1 milligram of DHA is produced in the body.

  3. Calculating ALA Intake: To estimate how much ALA you need to consume to meet your DHA requirements, you would need to consume significantly more ALA than the target amount of DHA. In practice, you might need to consume 10 to 20 times the target DHA amount in ALA.

  4. ALAs in Canola Oil: Canola oil typically contains approximately 8-10% ALA. So, you would need to consume a large amount of canola oil to obtain sufficient ALA to convert into an adequate amount of DHA.

  5. Balanced Diet: Relying solely on ALA for your omega-3 intake may not be the most efficient approach. Incorporating a variety of sources of omega-3 fatty acids, including fish, algae-based supplements, and flaxseed, in addition to canola oil, can help you meet your omega-3 requirements more effectively.

It's important to note that individual dietary needs and the efficiency of ALA conversion to DHA can vary among individuals. To ensure you are meeting your specific omega-3 requirements, it is advisable to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your dietary preferences and health goals.