Improve Brain Health with Omega Fish Oil

Extracted from fatty fish like anchovies, mackerel, and salmon, fish oil has become a popular supplement among many people.

While the Omega-3 fatty acids it contains, the EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and the DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are known for their skin and heart benefits, they are also effective when it comes to enhancing brain functions.

What is Fish Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

As mentioned, fish oil contains two types of omega-3 fatty acids.  The EPA and DPA, both of which are considered polyunsaturated fats.

These acids are known for the health benefits they have to offer from promoting good skin and heart health to its anti-inflammatory effects on the body.

Given these health benefits, making fish oil part of our diet is essential if we want to enjoy the benefits mentioned.

How Does It Affect the Brain? 

One of the biggest benefits we can get from fish oil omega-3 fatty acids is the effects it has on the human brain.

In fact, studies have shown that even before birth, these fatty acids already play an important role in a developing baby’s brain.

Other studies have also shown that lower levels of DHA in the blood of older adults can lead to signs of accelerated brain aging.

Below are some of the other brain-related effects of fish oil omega-3 fatty acids.

It May Reduce Mild Memory Loss

Fish Oil Omega-3 fatty acids are known for improving brain function which includes memory problems like Alzheimer’s disease.

While there is still no conclusive evidence to support those omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help address Alzheimer’s disease (which is quite severe compared to other cognitive issues), studies suggest that it can help address the milder types.

One study, for instance, showed that older adults with age-related cognitive decline who took 900 mg of DHA a day performed better when subjected to a variety of memory and learning tests.

Improvements in brain function were also found in people with mild cognitive impairments after taking 1.8 grams of omega-3s daily for 24 consecutive weeks.

It Helps Address Depression

Depression has proven to be dangerous when not given the proper attention which is probably the reason why it continues to be a top priority when it comes to public health.

While it does make sense for people to assume that fish oil can help address depression given the effects it can have on the brain, it’s been suggested that more research needs to be done to prove the direct correlation between the two.

The prospects have been positive though.  For one, clinical studies have shown that taking fish oil supplements helped reduce depression symptoms.  Research also suggests that this was partly because of the fish oil omega-3’s anti-inflammatory effects.

There was also additional evidence suggesting that fish oil can improve other mental issues like bipolar disorder as well as borderline personality disorder.

Final Thoughts

There’s no question that EPA and DPA are vital not just for optimal body functions but also for brain function and development.

This is especially true for people who are experiencing mild memory loss as well as symptoms of depression.  If you’re one of them, a daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids is the way to go so you can continue to be productive while enjoying a healthy life.