This Fatty Acid Improves Working Memory & Diverse Facets Of Neurocognitive Health*

Though fats as a whole tend to get a bad rap, fatty acids are crucial to numerous physiological processes, brain function being just one among them.

When we say this fatty acid seriously benefits the brain, we aren't kidding: Primarily located in neuronal membranes of the brain's gray matter (the area that processes information), DHA is the main PUFA in the brain and is involved in everything from working memory and planning to protecting neurons from oxidative stress.*

In addition to its diverse layers of brain health support, DHA has some especially important jobs throughout the entire life span.* (We're talking from womb to golden years, here!) All stages of life require DHA to support brain growth, development, and function—which is why scientists recommend all healthy individuals include DHA in their diets2 (and/or through supplementation) for optimal neurocognitive health and function at every age.*

When it comes to our brains, DHA is vital throughout the life span. It's important to get adequate amounts of EPA and DHA daily (the minimum is 250 to 500 milligrams per day) to ensure you're giving your brain all the fatty acids it needs to operate at full capacity—now and down the line.*

DHA is primarily found in fish, so consider introducing two servings or more of oily fish a week (per the Dietary Guidelines for Americans) to meet baseline omega-3 fatty acid needs. As nutrition scientist Ashley Jordan Ferira, Ph.D., RDN, explains, however, "To reap the full-on benefits of marine omega-3s for brain, heart, and whole-body health, science indicates a higher dose (1 gram plus) of EPA plus DHA each day is where it's at. That's like eating seven servings of oily fish a week, mind you."*