As the baby boomer generation ages, the issue of brain health is taking a more prominent stage on the medical scene. With degenerative brain diseases on the rise, everyone is looking for ways to prevent their onset and maintain their mental faculties for the rest of their life.
Other generations are looking for ways to improve mental functions so they can be more effective in their daily lives. There are many things you can do to protect and enhance your brain functions. Playing challenging games, exercising, and learning new skills all help promote a healthy brain.
Adding omega 3 fatty acids to your diet will also give your brain the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
Omega 3 is made up of 3 fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It is the DHA, however, that directly affects the brain.
It is found in high concentrations in the grey matter of the brain and directly affects how well the membranes of the brain cells function. DHA, as well as the other acids to a lesser extent, help make the cell membranes more fluid which improves communication between them.
Omega 3s are also an important component to brain development and maintenance. They are essential to the proper development of the brains of children and infants.
Scientists have linked low levels of omega 3 and DHA in particular to a number of mental ailments including, memory loss, bipolar disorder, ADD, autism, and depression among a list of other things.
It goes without saying that getting at least the recommended daily amount of omega 3 fatty acid in your diet may help alleviate the symptoms of some of these diseases. In fact, studies done in Japan suggest that DHA helps improve memory function in patients with dementia and depression.
The best source of omega 3 is fish. Dietitians recommend eating fish at least 2 to 3 times per week. For people who don't like the taste of fish, don't eat meat products altogether, or would rather get omega 3 some other way, there are plant sources available.
Flaxseed and walnuts are good sources of this essential nutrient. Another way to add omega 3 to your diet is to take a high quality supplement, especially fish oil.
Look for natural, pure and organic products and fish oil supplements that have no artificial ingredients. Your brain has to serve you for the rest of your life. Do everything you can to keep it in good health.
If you're interested in reading more about the health benefits of omega 3s and fish oil supplements, feel free to visit my website where I discuss products I personally use to achieve these benefits.
