The role of Omega 3 DHA in our brain health has been extensively researched over the last 50 years. Our brains are mostly made up of fat, with DHA being the most abundant omega 3 fatty acid in our brains, making up to 50% of the fatty acids in some brain cells. It forms the outer structure of our cells and has consistently been found to play a unique and critical role in normal brain development and function.
DHA is particularly concentrated in the frontal lobes which is the area of the brain used for concentration, speech and language, memory, mood and emotions. Omega 3 DHA is also important for cell signalling – DHA is concentrated at ‘synaptic terminals’ where brain chemical signals are exchanged. A major form of signalling between individual brain and nerve cells involves the release of chemical messengers or ‘neurotransmitters’ across synaptic junctions. Dopamine, serotonin and other neurotransmitters are influenced by Omega 3 DHA status.
Efalex Brain Formula was trailblazing in understanding the role and importance of DHA and other Omega 3 & 6 fats on children’s brain health. Efalex was the first supplement of its kind to undergo scientific vigour when it was launched in 1986, since then Efamol have continued to research its beneficial effects. Efalex’s unique formula contains Omega 3 fatty acids DHA and AA and Omega 6 GLA from Efamol’s unique Evening Primrose Oil.
Brain DHA levels increase throughout childhood and adolescence, developing faster than any other stage in life. New connections between brain and nerve cells are being made constantly in response to these new environments and experiences. This constant change of brain networks helps with the development of visual, attentional, and motor skills, cognition, and language.
Efamol Active Memory was launched to complement Efalex Brain Formula to support brain health in adults. It contains high strength fish oil high in DHA with Vitamin B12, Folic Acid, Ginkgo Biloba and Phosphatidylserine. Specially formulated for adults over 40.
As we age, a few things happen to our brain chemistry and its size and structure. Our brains begin to shrink after the age of 40 at a rate of around 5% every 10 years and possibly even quicker after the age of 70. This affects our ability to think quickly and recall from short-term memory. Studies suggest that an adequate amount of DHA in the brain is important for the health of the ageing adult brain and contributes to sustained brain function as we age.
