Remember the age-old advice to remember to take your Omega-3s? Well, it turns out it’s not just an old wives’ tale. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are crucial for brain health, development, and function. Taking omega-3 supplements or incorporating good sources of DHA into your diet can have substantial benefits for your brain.
##Breastfeeding and its long-lasting benefits
A study conducted by the Federal University of Pelotas in Brazil showed some fascinating results. The study found that children who were breastfed for the longest duration displayed higher intelligence, completed more education, and earned more income as adults. These benefits increased incrementally for every additional month that the child was breastfed up to 12 months.
So why does this occur? Breast milk contains vast amounts of DHA, which is vital for brain development and function. The study proves that nature’s method for feeding newborns through breastfeeding is far more beneficial than any infant formula available on the market today, even those that have DHA added to them.
##Why is DHA so important?
DHA is an essential component that plays a significant role in a variety of brain functions. Our bodies can’t produce DHA, meaning that we must obtain it from the foods we consume or by taking supplements. Fatty acids like Omega-3s, packed with DHA, are the primary fuel for your brain and have been known to improve various forms of memory.
Countless studies have shown the benefits of omega-3 consumption. One study demonstrated that by taking a gram or more of omega-3 with DHA every day, subjects experienced improved memory and overall better cognitive function. By incorporating DHA into your diet, you can improve your own cognitive function and maintain a healthier brain.
##Sources of DHA
So how can you naturally get more DHA into your diet? There are various food options available that are rich sources of DHA, including eggs, avocados, cold-water fish, walnuts, calamari, and squid oil. Calamari or squid oil contains the highest amount of bioavailable DHA, with over 35% DHA content.
To ensure that you are getting adequate quantities of DHA in your meal plans, make sure to include these foods in your regular diet. For expectant mothers or new mothers considering breastfeeding, taking DHA supplements or eating a wealth of DHA-rich foods is also essential for raising smarter and healthier children.
##DHA for mental health
In addition to general brain health and cognitive ability, DHA plays a vital role in maintaining mental health. Low levels of DHA have been associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. Consuming more omega-3s either through diet or supplements may thus help prevent or alleviate symptoms of mental health problems.
Furthermore, DHA has promising evidence for its ability to help in managing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Studies have indicated that higher levels of omega-3s can reduce the risk of developing dementia and improve memory in patients with mild cognitive impairment. This shows that DHA is crucial to maintaining thinking ability and independent living as we age.
##Don’t forget your DHA
It’s never too late to start incorporating DHA into your diet or consider taking omega-3 supplements. With its wealth of benefits, DHA can not only help improve overall brain function but also safeguard your mental and cognitive health well into old age. And for new mothers, breastfeeding your infant can provide the gift of a healthier and smarter life for your child.
