MONTREAL - Fatty-acids contained in fish are being touted as beneficial -- if not a cure -- for a myriad of conditions, including cancer, depression, attention disorders, as well as cardiovascular and Alzheimer's disease.

Whether hype or reality, most people in the developed world are suffering from what some nutritionists are calling the last remaining alimentary deficit: Omega-3.

The best source of the nutrient is fish, experts at an international conference held in Montreal said yesterday.

But we're not getting the recommended amount of Omega-3 in our diet because we don't eat enough fish, according to a Universite Laval faculty of medicine study that showed that 84% of Quebecers fail to consume the recommended daily dose of marine Omega-3.

"We don't know why [consumption is low]. But despite the numerous health benefits...attitudes are hard to change," study co-author Eric Dewailly said.

Fish is low in saturated fat and cholesterol and is a good source of protein.

Confusion over unwanted chemicals like mercury in fish may have lowered consumption, he added. Wild fish is less likely to be contaminated.

"We need to find a way to restore what [our diet] needs but we can't empty the ocean," Mr. Dewailly said.

Two to three servings of fish a week, preferably salmon, trout, mackerel and sardines, will provide the recommended dose of the nutrient.

The body can't store or make the nutrient which is why some scientists are calling for fish oil supplements, especially for those at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Omega-3 is essential for building the brain in the first place, said researcher Alex Richardson, founder and director of food and behaviour research, at the University of Oxford in England.

The old wisdom that fish is good for the brain is true, Ms. Richardson said: "That's fish that hasn't been battered and fried to death.

"In fact, there's hardly a tissue or organ that doesn't depend on these essential fatty acids," Ms. Richardson said.

But if fish is not an option, try a Mediterranean diet or increase consumption of leafy green vegetables and flaxseed oil, said Ms. Richardson, a pioneer in the field on the role of Omega-3 fatty acids and their role in children's behaviour, learning and mood.

Preliminary studies in children with attention deficit and learning difficulties have shown academic as well as behavioural improvement in those taking Omega-3 compared to those getting a placebo.

Improvements include better concentration and fewer distruptive behavior problems, she said.

Charlie Fidelman, CanWest News Service