The Power of Omega-3s

The Power of Omega-3s and Brain Health

June 25, 2019

Written by Sara Uffelman

Fact checked by The Brain Blog Team

Omega-3s as Brain Food

Let’s talk about Brain Food, more specifically the Omega-3s known as DHA and EPA. DHA and EPA are essential fatty acids required for rebuilding new cells. In fact, they are often referred to as the building blocks for healthy cell membranes. These cell membranes provide critical support for the brain connections that support healthy memory , cognition , and emotional well-being .  They also help nourish your brain to improve and protect it.

Omega-3s are often referred to as  essential fats, meaning our bodies can't produce them and we must get them through our diet. Foods high in omega-3s include cold water fish like salmon, and seeds like chia seeds and flax seeds. Try adding foods rich in omega-3s to your diet to further support your brain health.  For even more support, consider fortifying your diet with an Omega-3 supplement!

Fun Fact: The Memory Health formula is made with the highest quality omega-3s [500mg DHA and 150mg EPA], sourced from the coldest waters in Northern Scandinavia! 

Why are Omega-3s so Important?

When you consider the fact that the Brain is nearly 60% fat it starts to make more sense why omega-3 fats are so important for brain health.  In fact, DHA comprises 40% of the fatty acids in the brain. Because of this, omega-3s are vital for maintaining healthy brain function and have been linked to healthy aging throughout life, including pregnancy and early life.  They are also used to fight inflammation in the brain.  This is especially important today as our bodies are constantly subject to sources of stress, often leading to chronic inflammation over time.  Finding natural ways to reduce inflammation, such as incorporating omega-3s into your diet, has become more important than ever. 

5 health benefits of Omega-3s supported by science:

A recent Healthline article written by Freydis Hjalmarsdottir, MS lists 17 Science-Based Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Here are my Top 5!

1. Omega-3s can promote brain health during pregnancy and early life (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6).

2. Omega-3s can fight inflammation in the brain and body (7, 8, 9, 10, 11).

3. Omega-3s can fight depression and anxiety (12, 13, 14, 15, 16).

4. Omega-3s can fight age-related mental decline and Alzheimer's Disease (17, 18, 19, 20).

5. Omega-3s can improve eye and brain health (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29).

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