Will eating fish oil make the brain smarter

Moderate supplementation of fish oil may be helpful for brain function, but it cannot directly improve intelligence. The mechanism of action of fish oil is mainly related to improving the fluidity of brain cell membranes, regulating neurotransmitters, and reducing inflammatory reactions.

Fish oil is rich in DHA and EPA, which are important components of the brain's nerve cell membrane and are part of the omega-3 fatty acids. DHA accounts for approximately 15% of the weight of the cerebral cortex and is particularly important for the brain development of infants and young children. Clinical studies have shown that supplementing DHA during pregnancy and lactation can aid in fetal neurological development. For adults, regular intake of fish oil may improve memory loss and delay the progression of mild cognitive impairment. After supplementation, some patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may experience relief in their symptoms. Excessive supplementation of fish oil may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, abnormal coagulation function, and other issues. Patients with coagulation disorders, pre - and post-operative populations, and those allergic to seafood should use it with caution. The purity of commercially available fish oil products varies greatly, and some may contain heavy metal residues. It is safer to eat deep-sea fish through daily diet. Eating salmon, sardine and other fatty fish twice or three times a week can basically meet the demand for omega 3 fatty acids.

Maintaining brain health requires comprehensive conditioning, and it is recommended to combine regular sleep, aerobic exercise, cognitive training, and other methods. The Mediterranean dietary pattern, which includes abundant fish, nuts, and olive oil, has been proven to have a protective effect on cognitive function. Middle aged and elderly people can undergo regular memory screening and seek medical attention promptly if significant cognitive decline is detected. During the critical period of children's intellectual development, comprehensive nutrition should be ensured to avoid relying solely on certain supplements.