Wow, you are so bright! – It might be one of the best compliments to hear. But your brain can do so much more; brain health is not limited to smartness, says Ms. Maitri Trivedi, Nutritionist, Pure Nutrition Naturals, while elaborating on Omega-3 and its benefits.
Omega FA is proven to shower benefits over the heart, brain, eyes, and joint health, ultimately reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a major cause of almost all illnesses, which, when controlled, can help mitigate the symptoms and slow disease progressions.
Omega-3 is one of the best neuroprotective supplements out there. It is essential for all age groups. In addition, brain cells that contain a good amount of omega-3 have been shown to communicate better with other cells and thus help improve brain function.
Let’s understand what omega-3 is:
There are two types of omega-3 fatty acids — EPA and DHA. In the human diet, EPA and DHA are found in foods and supplements. ALA, also known as Alpha-linoleic acid, is found in many foods like walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, etc. This ALA then converts into EPA and DHA in the body. However, the human body cannot efficiently convert this ALA to EPA and DHA. Therefore, taking supplements becomes an excellent alternative to fulfilling the omega requirements.
One of the significant functions of omega-3 is to reduce and manage inflammation in the body. Studies have suggested that consistent use of omega has helped improve cognitive processes, improved blood circulation, and inhibited neuronal cell death while showing neuroprotective functions.
Omega fatty acids are vital for the normal functioning of the brain. Even in pregnant women, the use of omega-3 in food or supplement form has helped develop and protect the brain. The demand for omega-3 increases to 1.4 grams for pregnant women and 1.3 grams for breastfeeding women.
Over all ages, omega-3 has improved cognitive function and thus aids in learning abilities and memory. Conversely, a deficiency of DHA can also affect the development of the brain and memory and bring about learning disabilities. In addition, healthy omega-3 consumption has been linked to better cardiovascular health, improved symptoms of arthritis, and Age-related macular degeneration, while supporting the management of allergies.
Why is Omega supplementation essential?
The stress factors have increased considerably in our urban lives. Environmental stressors and foods that are adulterated for a significant part can have adverse health effects. For example, gluten, dairy, sugar, and HFSS foods tend to increase inflammation in the body. This can then lead to cognitive decline. At the same time, growing sedentary lifestyles and desk jobs, which lead to obesity, also lead to a decline in brain performance.
Hence omega-3 supplementation becomes essential and helps manage this inflammation. Furthermore, the increased oxidative stress can harm the neurons, and thus the neuroprotective function of omega-3 helps us combat the effects of these stressors. Besides omega-3 supplementation, a Mediterranean diet and exercise can also help improve cognitive health.
What are the best sources for Omega-3?
A healthy ratio of Omega-3: Omega 6 must be maintained.
Some good sources of Omega-3 include Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and soybean.
While taking omega-3 supplements, the ones sourced from algal oil are vegan and can provide all the benefits. Ensure you check for both EPA and DHA, as both are essential for overall improvement in health.
Natural consumption of omega from foods is a good way to supply omega-3 to the body. Supplementation, however, also helps immensely, and one must look into the supplement labels carefully. Supplementation, when paired with a good diet and exercise, can help bring about good results, thus making your brain smarter and healthier!