Brain Function – Will Omega-3 Fish Oil Help?
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy brain function and development. Molecularly distilled fish oil, particularly if it is rich in DHA, is the safest and best choice for supplementation. For strict vegans, the best alternative is marine algae. Flax seed supplements do not contain DHA.
DHA-Highly Important
For many years, flax seed has been recommended as a vegan alternative to fish oil, but research has now proven that flax seed supplements do not increase levels of DHA in the bloodstream. It is DHA that is most important to healthy brain function, because it is the most abundant fatty acid found in it. In addition, it makes up 50% of the membranes surrounding the neurons.
Neurons are sometimes referred to as nerve cells or simply brain cells. They are responsible for processing and transmitting information. They are the core components of the brain, the spinal cord and the peripheral nerves. When neurons becomeBest Brain Supplement As Adderall Alternative damaged or destroyed, they usually cannot be replaced. It has been estimated that there are 100 billion neurons in the brain, alone.
Alzheimer’s
Diseases that negatively effect brain function are known as “neurologic diseases”, because it is the neurons that are “sick”. In an Alzheimer’s patient many of the neurons die. They become choked with plaques and cannot function. Researchers hope that supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and other neurological diseases.
Depression
Fish oil supplements are beneficial for people suffering from depression. It has been noted that DHA levels are very low in people that are depressed. In cases of severe depression, DHA is practically depleted.
ADHD