α-Linolenic acid is an essential ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in plants. In vivo, it is converted to the longer-chain fatty acids eicosapentaenoic, docosapentaenoic , and docosahexaenoic acid . It is also catabolized via fatty acid β-oxidation for energy or the synthesis of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, or stored in adipose tissue. Dietary consumption of α-linolenic acid-containing foods is positively associated with a moderately lower risk of cardiovascular disease.