Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fats that our bodies need to function properly, but did you know they can also provide a wealth of benefits when it comes to brain health? Many people are low in these essential nutrients. Let’s take a closer look at why omega 3 fatty acids are important for brain health and how they can help.
What Are Omega 3 Fatty Acids?
Omega 3 fatty acids are a type of fat made up of three main components, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These are essential fatty acids that your body cannot make on its own. These are found in foods such as salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, eggs, walnuts, flax seeds, hemp seed, chia seeds, algae, brussel sprouts, and some vegetable oils. They have been found to be associated with improved physical and mental health due to their anti-inflammatory properties. It is important to note, that the ALA found in plant foods must be converted to EPA and DHA within the body, and some people have a low conversion rate, so getting EPA and DHA is important. Algae is a fantastic vegan source of EPA and DHA.
Why Omega 3 Fatty Acids Are Good For Brain Health?
Omega 3 fatty acids play an important role in maintaining healthy brain functions. They help support the development of new cells in the brain and aid in communication between neurons. Studies have shown that omega 3 fats have neuroprotective effects which can help protect against certain degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. Additionally, they have also been linked to improved memory and cognitive performance.
How do Omega 3 Fatty Acids help mood?
Besides helping with cognitive function, omega 3 fatty acids can also help reduce stress levels and improve mood by increasing serotonin production in the brain. This is because EPA has been found to increase dopamine production which is responsible for regulating emotions. Furthermore, DHA helps regulate inflammation which can be beneficial for emotional wellbeing. ALA helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress on the body which helps improve mood.
Overall, it’s clear that omega-3 fatty acids offer numerous benefits when it comes to brain health. Whether you’re looking to maintain mental clarity or improve your mood and emotional wellbeing, adding more omega-3 rich foods into your diet is a great way to promote overall well-being. And because most people are deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids, it is also beneficial to supplement. I have a favorite vegan and non-vegan Omega 3 supplement, they both also have Vitamin D3 and CoQ10, among other beneficial ingredients and are very absorbable. Holistic moms should consider incorporating these essential fats into their family’s diet for improved physical and mental health!
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