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Omega-3 DHA – Food for the Brain
Ever get caught in your tracks wondering why you came into a room or what you were looking for?
We all have had that experience so you are not alone. However, if you are finding that is happening more frequently, it could be a clear sign that you are chronically deficient in Omega-3s.
If you’re noticing more frequent brain fog, memory lapses, and “senior moments” lately, the underlying cause may be more than just the distractions of a busy schedule or a few nights of poor-quality sleep. Age-related cognitive decline may be to blame.
Recent studies have indicated that approximately 40% of people will struggle with age-related memory lapses at some point during their lifetime, especially over age 65.
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for healthy development and proper function of many different body systems. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), one of the most studied omega-3 fatty acids, is well known for its role in brain development – so much so that infant formulas are often enriched with DHA, and women are generally encouraged to take a DHA supplement during pregnancy.
Omega-3 DHA isn’t just important for brain development during infancy though; it is also necessary for maintenance of healthy brain function throughout life.
The Importance of Marine Omega-3s for Brain Development and the Prevention and Treatment of Behaviour, Mood and Brain Disorders
Most of the global population is deficient in long-chain marine omega-3s. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, are extremely important in brain function and actively support mental health throughout early childhood all the way into advanced adulthood.
Dietary Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the prevention of some disorders including depression, as well as in dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. Their deficiency can prevent the renewal of membranes, and thus accelerate cerebral ageing.
Omega-3 DHA in particular, is vital for brain and eye development. It is important for cellular membrane fluidity, function and neurotransmitter release and a lack of this vital essential fatty acid can contribute to disorders of the brain including depression.
Evidence indicates that a low intake of marine Omega-3s increases the risk for numerous mental health issues, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism, bipolar disorder, depression and suicidal ideation. Studies giving supplemental marine omega-3s have shown promise for improving numerous mental health conditions. (Nutrients 2020, 12, 2333; doi:10.3390/nu12082333)
Using Algae Oil Omega-3s as a Fish Oil Substitute
Compared to the western diet that is chronically deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids, the Japanese diet is rich in Omega-3, obtained from eating a lot of fish. It is suggested that the longevity, and puzzling low rates of heart disease and atherosclerosis of the Japanese people is attributed to their diet.
The impact of Omega-3 DHA + EPA intake can be aligned with quality of life and the physiological changes that come with aging. As we get older, it is more important than ever to make sure we supplement our diet with Omega-3 DHA & EPA to maintain mental clarity and prevent the pathological conditions associated with the aging process.
For many years, medical practitioners have been prescribing fish oil as a source of Omega-3s to their patients – however, not all are keen on taking fish oil, because of the associated negative issues. Algae Oil presents the perfect, even superior alternative.
Explore further: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15129302