This Brain-Focused Nutrient Supports Cognitive Function & Longevity*

Though fats as a whole tend to get a bad rap, fatty acids are crucial to numerous physiological processes, brain function being just one among them.

In fact, 60% of the human brain is made up of fat1, making it the fattiest organ in the body. And just like we need to stay hydrated because 60% of our body is made up of water, the nervous system needs fat—and DHA is one standout omega-3 fatty acid that works overtime to make sure the brain is getting the support it needs to operate at full capacity.*

What is DHA?

Brain health benefits of DHA

When we say this fatty acid seriously benefits the brain, we aren't kidding: Primarily located in neuronal membranes of the brain's gray matter (the area that processes information), DHA is the main PUFA in the brain and is involved in everything from working memory and planning to protecting neurons from oxidative stress.*

Furthermore, DHA strengthens general neuroprotection (i.e., maintaining the structure and function of neurons) and supports the brain's inflammatory and immune responses—in other words, it's a multitasking superstar at helping the nervous system operate well.* 

How DHA supports cognitive performance throughout the life span

In addition to its diverse layers of brain health support, DHA has some especially important jobs throughout the entire life span.* (We're talking from womb to golden years, here!) All stages of life require DHA to support brain growth, development, and function—which is why scientists recommend all healthy individuals include DHA in their diets2 (and/or through supplementation) for optimal neurocognitive health and function at every age.*

Here are some of the clinically researched, age-specific benefits associated with adequate levels of DHA intake:

The takeaway

When it comes to our brains, DHA is vital throughout the life span. It's important to get adequate amounts of EPA and DHA daily (the minimum is 250 to 500 milligrams per day) to ensure you're giving your brain all the fatty acids it needs to operate at full capacity—now and down the line.*

DHA is primarily found in fish, so consider introducing two servings or more of oily fish a week (per the Dietary Guidelines for Americans) to meet baseline omega-3 fatty acid needs. However, to reap the full benefits of omega-3s from brain health (in addition to heart health and overall longevity), the therapeutic dose is about 1 gram of combined EPA and DHA per day.

For these higher omega-3 levels, consider leveraging a premium-quality, sustainably sourced, health-expert-approved fish oil supplement with third-party verified traceability like mbg's omega-3 potency+. This daily essential delivers a potent 1.5 grams of EPA plus DHA (that's the omega-3 equivalent of one serving of fish per day!) so that meeting your omega-3 needs isn't another fish for you to fry.†

† 1 serving (2 gelcaps) of omega-3 potency+ delivers 1,500 mg (1.5 g) of EPA + DHA. That's equivalent to the omega-3s (EPA + DHA) provided in 1 serving of oily fish (anchovies). If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications, consult with your doctor before starting a supplement routine. It is always optimal to consult with a health care provider when considering what supplements are right for you.