Omega-3s Enhance Cognitive Function

When I was in middle school, my father, who is a chiropractor in the Chicago suburbs, always emphasized the importance of taking "fish oil supplements" daily. Often, he would urge his patients to work omega-3 fatty acids into their daily regimen of supplements, while also eating organic foods. Only now, after studying the nervous system, do I realize the importance of adequate omega-3 fatty acid levels.

In the United States, fish oils are a lucrative business grossing more than $1 billion each year. However, their success in sales is not mutually exclusive with their health benefits.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that regulate your brain's structure and ability to perform. Specifically, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) play a discrete role in the structure and function of the brain.

EPA has anti-inflammatory properties that can turn off the genes for anti-inflammation in the gut and turn off other inflammatory genes. Meanwhile, DHA plays a major role in fetal brain development and the retina of the eye during the first two years of life. It is paramount to early life development to ensure that young children are intaking recommended levels of DHA and EPA through Omega-3 fatty acids.

About 35% of the walls of your brain cells are made of omega-3 fats. If there are not enough of these good fats available to make good strong brain cells, the body will use whatever raw materials it can find to use as a fat resource.

Research demonstrates that you can raise a child's IQ by more than three points by supplementation and a diet rich in omega-3 fats. Because the body can not produce them, they must be acquired through diet and supplementation. Fish have high omega-3 values, but it is important to screen specific fish for toxic heavy metal and chemical contaminant exposure depending on their water and food source.

Omega-3 fatty acids are an important tool in your arsenal of supplements and dietary selections to enhance brain function. In the long-term, adequate levels of omega-3s will incur benefits well into old age.

-Sean

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