Benefits of Fatty Acids DHA/EPA

Omega-3 long-chain PUFA, including EPA and DHA, are dietary fats with an array of health benefits. DHA is a key component of all cell membranes and is found in abundance in the brain and retina. Adequate dietary availability of DHA and EPA is fundamental to brain function.

DHA and EPA supplementation can improve brain functions, sense of wellbeing and cognitive performance. Studies have shown that DHA and EPA improves mood parameters such as vigor, anger, anxiety, fatigue, depression and confusion. There is also an improvement in sustained attention and reduction in errors in attention tests.

Sources of DHA/EPA:

EPA and DHA are essential fatty acids, meaning that the body can’t make them. Getting EPA and DHA from food is the only practical way to increase levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the body.

• Fish: salmon, pollock, sardine, mackerel, tuna, herring

• Fortified Foods: Eggs, yogurt, juices, milk, soy beverages

• Supplements

References

Danielle Swanson, Robert Block and Shaker A. Mousa. Omega-3 Fatty Acids EPA and DHA: Health Benefits Throughout Life. American Society for Nutrition 2012 

Parris M. Kidd. Omega-3 DHA and EPA for Cognition, Behavior and Mood: Clinical Findings and Structural-Functional Synergies with Cell Membrane Phospholipids