Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are considered crucial for maintaining cognitive functions. Studies show that they enhance the plasticity of neuronal networks, increase the production of neurotransmitters, and reduce inflammation in the brain. These effects, supported by scientific research, improve memory, attention, and learning. 1
Beneficial fatty acids, especially omega-3, play a crucial role in maintaining cognitive functions from physiological and neurological perspectives. At the cellular level, they exert a range of beneficial effects that can enhance cognitive abilities. 1Omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are vital components of cell membranes and play a key role in neurotransmission between neurons. Scientific research indicates that omega-3 contributes to improving the plasticity of neuronal networks, which can enhance cognitive functions like memory, attention, and learning. 2 A systematic review published in 2022 found that participants receiving additional doses of omega-3 fatty acids showed improvement in cognitive functions and a reduced risk of neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. 3Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the brain, often associated with worsening cognitive functions. This is supported by studies published in “Pharmacological review " in 2018, which demonstrated that participants consuming more omega-3 fatty acids had lower levels of inflammatory markers in the brain and better cognitive function. 4At the cellular level, omega-3 fatty acids can also enhance the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in mood regulation, attention, and memory.5Thus, scientific research confirms that omega-3 fatty acids have a positive impact on cognitive functions from physiological and neurological perspectives. Their consumption can be particularly beneficial for maintaining brain health and preventing neurological disorders.
1. Talukdar, T., Zamroziewicz, M. K., Zwilling, C. E., & Barbey, A. K. (2019). Nutrient biomarkers shape individual differences in functional brain connectivity: Evidence from omega‐3 PUFAs. Human brain mapping, 40(6), 1887-1897.
2. Cooper, R. E., Tye, C., Kuntsi, J., Vassos, E., & Asherson, P. (2015). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of psychopharmacology, 29(7), 753-763.
3. Dighriri IM, Alsubaie AM, Hakami FM, Hamithi DM, Alshekh MM, Khobrani FA, Dalak FE, Hakami AA, Alsueaadi EH, Alsaawi LS, Alshammari SF, Alqahtani AS, Alawi IA, Aljuaid AA, Tawhari MQ. Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Brain Functions: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2022 Oct 9;14(10):e30091. doi: 10.7759/cureus.30091. PMID: 36381743; PMCID: PMC9641984.
4. Laye, S., Nadjar, A., Joffre, C., & Bazinet, R. P. (2018). Anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids in the brain: physiological mechanisms and relevance to pharmacology. Pharmacological reviews, 70(1), 12-38.
5. Yonezawa, K., Kusumoto, Y., Kanchi, N., Kinoshita, H., Kanegae, S., Yamaguchi, N., & Ozawa, H. (2020). Recent trends in mental illness and omega-3 fatty acids. Journal of Neural Transmission, 127, 1491-1499.
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