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TAKING CARE OF YOUR BRAIN We are bombarded by information about taking care of our body: brush and floss, practice personal hygiene, dress warmly, exercise, get your rest, eat smart. And always look great. But what about our brain?
It's easy to take the brain for granted. Most of its complex functions are on autopilot, but every second they keep us alive. The more scientists study the brain, the more complex it seems to be.The human brain is the most complicated organization of matter we know. Approximately ten billion nerve cells and nearly one hundred billion smaller supporting cells are packed into its three pounds. Each nerve cell is connected to many other nerve cells in a complex pattern in which tiny electrical currents flow in any of a vast number of possible pathways. This article focuses on the role of an essential brain nutrient known as DHA and what we can do to take proper care of our brain. Let's start with the most common questions...
What is DHA and why is it important?
DHA is shorthand for docosahexaenoic acid.. It is a fatty acid --in precise terms, an omega-3 long-chan polyunsaturated fatty acid - that is the primary building block of the brain and retina of the eye .DHA is the most abundant fat in both the brain and the retina. It is essential for brain and eye function.What is the difference between DHA and DHEA?
The are two completely different substances. DHA is docosahexaenoic acid, an omega - 3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid that is the primary structural fatty acid in the gray matter of the brain and retina of the eye. DHA is essential for mental and visual function, and is present in certain foods. It is the most abundant fatty acid in human breast milk. DHEA on the other hand, is short for dehydroepiandrosterone, a steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands located just above the kidneys.Who needs DHA?
Everyone needs DHA. Cells in the brain, retina, and other parts of the nervous system have connecting arms that transport electrical currents, sending messages throughout the body. DHA ensures the optimal composition of nerve cell membranes necessary for the most effective transmission of these signals. Low levels of DHA have been correlated with changes in disposition, memory loss, and visual and other neurological conditions.How much DHA do I need?
Each of us is unique. Our body synthesizes a small amount of DHA from a diet that includes eggs, red meats, fish, and animal organ meats. However, in avoiding "bad" saturated fats, we have lost "good" fats like DHA. Today, the average American daily intake of DHA is estimated to be 100mg lower than it was about 50 years ago.What food sources supply DHA?
DHA is available from eggs, red meats, fish, and organ meats. People who limit their meat and egg intake are especially vulnerable to having a lower DHA level.What is the difference between DHA from micro algae and DHA from fish oils?
Until recently, the primary source of DHA dietary supplements has been fish oils. Unlike fish oils, DHA from microaglae does not contain eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which is not recommended for infants, children, and certain adults.Are there any side effects?
DHA is produced directly from micro algae and there are no known side effects. DHA is naturally present in certain foods, and it behaves like any other fat in our digestive system.Will I notice any difference?
DHA is a safe, natural dietary supplement It is not a drug. You should not expect instant relief of any ailment or any other immediate change. As with other dietary supplements or modifications in diet, any differences would be noticed over time.Daily use of DHA is intended to normalize the levels of DHA in your blood. If you miss a day or two, simply resume taking the recommended amount. The best time of day to take it is when you are most likely to remember. It may be best to take DHA with your principal meal. DHA is a safe ;natural dietary supplement. Taking more than the recommended amount should not be harmful or life-threatening.
Many physicians have incorporated nutrition-based prevention into their medical practices. Those who are current will know about DHA. Others may know about the omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids of which DHA is one, and recommend certain foods like fish that are rich in DHA, but may not know the term DHA. Although the science concerning the role of DHA in the brain, retina, and other parts of the nervous system is relatively new, there is nothing new or strange about DHA in the human diet. Feel free to speak with your physician about your use of DHA.