We’ve all heard fish called "brain food." In fact, the most polyunsaturated
of the Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) makes up a large portion of the
gray matter of the brain. The fat in your brain is the type that
forms cell membranes and plays a vital role in how our cells function.
Neurons in the brain, the cells that transmit chemical messages,
are also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, there’s more DHA
in our neurons than in our red blood cells. DHA is also found
in high quantities in the retina, the light-sensitive part of
the eye. A typical Western diet, however, generally is deficient
in Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA.*
Research in the last few years has revealed that diets rich in
Omega-3 fatty acids may help promote a healthy emotional balance
and positive mood, and may help us maintain a healthy mental status
in later years. Researchers speculate that a diet rich in the
Omega-3 fatty acid DHA, found in fish oil, may help promote a
healthy emotional balance and positive mood in part because DHA
is a main component of the synaptic membranes in the brain. (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 62, July 1995, pp. 1-9.) Researchers in another study found
that people with a healthy emotional balance and positive mental
outlook tended to have higher levels of DHA in their red blood
cells. (Biol Psychiatry 1998; 43(5): 315-9.)*
A Danish team of researchers compared the diets of 5,386 healthy
older individuals and found that the more fish in a person’s diet,
the longer the person was able to maintain a healthy mental status.
(Ann Neurol 1997; 42: 776-82.)*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug
Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat,
cure or prevent any disease