The Importance of Omega-3's For Developing Brains and Why We Measure It.
In a published study, researchers from the University of Pittsburgh were able to positively correlate higher levels of blood cell fatty acids (EPA & DHA) with improved working memory in healthy young adults. Optimizing blood levels of these essential fatty acids is crucial to increasing attention, improving executive function, and reducing behavioral problems.
Children’s level of DHA in their blood cells significantly predicts their ability to concentrate and learn at school.
An Oxford University study involving nearly 500 school-children found that blood levels of Omega-3 fatty acids significantly predicted a child’s behavior and ability to learn. Higher levels of Omega-3, DHA in particular, were associated with better reading and memory, as well as with fewer behavior problems as rated by parents and teachers.
Increased Omega-3 index scores improved both memory and reaction time in healthy young adults.
A research team from Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand gave DHA supplements or a placebo to 176 young adults for 6 months. They reported that DHA raised the Omega-3 Index from 5.9% to 8.7% and that this was associated with improvements in memory scores.
Click below to learn more about our NeuroHealth Assessment and why we measure Omega-3s