Omega-3s and the brain: the role of DHA in mental function
The brain is the fattiest organ in the human body, after adipose tissue. It is composed of approximately 60% fat, including a significant proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).
However, most adults do not meet the recommended intake of omega-3s. This deficiency has documented consequences for brain function.
DHA: An Essential Brain Constituent
DHA is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid present in high concentrations in neuronal cell membranes, particularly in synapses. It plays a structural role in the fluidity and permeability of neuronal membranes, which directly influences the transmission of signals between brain cells.
Source: EFSA Panel. Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to DHA. EFSA Journal, 2010.
EPA and DHA: Complementary Roles
Primarily structural. Major component of neuronal membranes. EFSA-validated claim on normal brain function from 250 mg of DHA per day.
Primarily functional. Documented role in inflammatory mechanisms and cardiovascular health.
Source: Dyall SC. Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and the brain. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2015.
Why Intake Is Often Insufficient
The main dietary sources of EPA and DHA are fatty fish: salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring. European recommendations suggest consuming fatty fish twice a week.
In practice, a large part of the population does not achieve these intakes. Plant sources (flax, chia, walnuts) provide ALA, a precursor that the body converts into EPA and DHA to a limited extent in adults.
To understand the role of fats in brain nutrition, consult our article on why brain nutrition starts with fats.
What MySynapz observes
Brain nutrition is one of the pillars of the MySynapz method. Omega-3s, and DHA in particular, are among the basic nutrients whose coverage is assessed in the cognitive assessment.
The MySynapz method is based on this logic: observe, understand, adjust.
Daily Brain Nutrition, MySynapz
Seamega TG-XO Ultra EPAX · 800 mg EPA · 600 mg DHA
Triglyceride form · High bioavailability
Discover Daily Brain NutritionFrequently Asked Questions
EFSA validates the claim for the maintenance of normal brain function from 250 mg of DHA per day. Daily Brain Nutrition provides 600 mg of DHA per serving of 2 capsules.
No. Plant sources provide ALA, which the body converts into EPA and DHA to a limited extent. To meet needs directly, marine sources are more effective.
Yes. This is even the recommended combination in the Brain Foundation protocol. Omega-3s form the nutritional base upon which other active ingredients can build.
Brain nutrition starts with the basics. And omega-3s, especially DHA, have been part of it for a long time.
Start with your MySynapz diagnosis to identify if omega-3s are a priority lever for your cognitive profile.
1. EFSA Panel. Scientific Opinion on health claims related to DHA. EFSA Journal, 2010.
2. Dyall SC. Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and the brain. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2015.
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