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Health & Fitness

DHA for Healthy Brain Development

DHA for Healthy Brain Development

Yes! Swallowing fish oil caps can be a chore; some Omega-3 capsules are humongous....and yes, most of the time you have to take two of them. However, the benefit that you receive from taking them far outweighs the momentary discomfort, so buck up soldier....

Two of the most important omega-3 essential fatty acids—eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—are often recommended in combination to complement a healthy diet and support general cardiovascular health, immune system health, bone health, and healthy nervous system function.

DHA helps support the normal, healthy development of the brain, eyes, and nerves, which is why it's recommended for pregnant and nursing mothers and children. DHA is also the most prominent essential fatty acid in the brain—by many thousands of times over EPA. So it's no surprise that preliminary evidence suggests that higher levels of DHA (but not EPA) are associated with a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Related research suggests that DHA supplementation may help maintain healthy cognitive function in aging adults. Clincal studies also suggest that DHA provides targeted cardiovascular and eye health support.

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A concentrated DHA supplement (offering a higher ratio of DHA to EPA) may be a very strong weapon for building a healthy defense against many common age-related symptoms and conditions.

Purity and quality of fish oil supplements (omega-3s, EPA, DHA) is a growing public concern. High quality supplements have the potential to offer wonderful health support. But lesser quality products may contain potentially harmful levels of compounds that negatively impact health—or not work or taste as well as they should.

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  • Contamination. Some fish oil products may contain excessive levels of harmful toxins.

  • Country of origin. Some products are manufactured in countries with less consistent quality standards.

  • Rancidity. Fish oil is unstable and can quickly become spoiled and oxidized, which can be bad for your health.

  • Low potency. Some products may contain lower levels of omega-3s than promised on labels.

You see why it’s important to know what’s behind the label. Is it a preferred source (location, type of fish, responsible fishing methods)? What are the purity standards? Who does the testing? Where is it made? Is it protected against rancidity? How does it taste? Is it enteric coated? These are the questions you should be asking yourself the next time you are considering buying an Omega 3 supplement for yourself or the family. And Yes, they are BIG, but, they are so packed with nutrition that you need to close your eyes and swallow hard.

Please visit us at: St. James Nutrition, 298 Lake Avenue, Saint James, NY, or, Innovative Nutrition, 206 Rt. 25A East Setauket, NY

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