Maximise your Brain Power with Omega 3

The human brain is a source of constant fascination, still holding many mysteries for researchers and scientists as to how it operates. Among the facts we do know, however, is that because 60% of the brain is composed of fat, it is vital that our diets contain sufficient amounts of the right healthy fats to ensure full brain function and overall health.

At least 30% of the brain is made up of the Omega 3 fatty acid called DHA (docosahexanoic acid) – a crucial constituent of the outer membrane of brain cells. This fat-rich cell membrane is the pathway for all signals from the nervous system – effectively acting as a gatekeeper.

As the process of learning, and creating memories forges new connections between nerve cells, new membranes must be created to sheathe those connections. All brain cell membranes need to be continuously refreshed with a new supply of fatty acids, which is why it is critical to have a daily intake of these essential fatty acids.

Most commonly found in oily fish like salmon, mackerel and herring, Omega 3’s can also be found in some vegetable oils and seeds like flaxseed and hemp.

Having an adequate amount of Omega 3s in your diet, and cutting back on the less desirable Omega 6 oils (found in oils commonly used for frying food, like soyabean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil and safflower oil) can improve your memory, help you concentrate better, keep you motivated, defuse stress and potentially slow down the brain aging process.

Research at Harvard Medical School also suggests that supplementing with Omega 3 can help stabilise patients with manic depression, and help prevent heart failure by stabilising an erratic heartbeat.

For optimal health, the National Academy of Sciences suggests at least 660mg of Omega 3 for adults per day, from diet or supplements.