For heart heath, cognition, memory retention and anti-inflammation it is all about omega-3. Animal sources provide forms DHA and EPA most intimately linked to these noted benefits while plant-based sources provide its less active precursor, ALA. Though ALA is still considered an essential nutrient, the conversion process to its more bioactive forms is largely inefficient and dependent on many dietary factors and your current nutritional status. This is certainly something to keep in mind when aiming to reap the most benefit from this key nutrient.