The other day my friend asked me what is DHA used for and I found myself giving a lengthy explanation about how DHA is the fatty acid responsible for your brain's development.
Basically, DHA is an omega 3 fatty acid. Your brain is made up of nearly 60% of this fatty acid. And it's used throughout your body for many jobs.
It increases the amount of a protein that improves your memory and concentration. Studies show it can protect you from Alzheimer's and even boost your mood.
It does so much more too.
Here's a short list of what DHA is used for:
1- Protects you from heart attacks. Western diets are full of fatty deposits and cholesterol that build up in your arteries. This can cause a "hardening of the arteries" that essentially narrows your arteries so blood has a hard time getting through.
DHA prevents this plaque build up in your arteries so your blood flows smoothly.
2-- Strengthens Your Eyesight-Your retina contains DHA fatty acids. If you're not getting enough of these omega 3's, your eyes are not getting the nutrients they need and your eyesight will fail.
3- Slows Aging---a University of California study found volunteers who consumed enough omega 3's actually slowed the aging of their DNA compared with the participants who didn't get the omega 3 fatty acids they need.
4-Boosts your mood-Research shows DHA can lift mild depression. Psychologists are recommending omega 3 fish oil supplements to more and more patients. Some, have even been able to reduce or stop taking anti depressants as a result of taking these supplements and getting the nutrients they need.
Basically, DHA is essential. It improves your memory and cardiovascular system plus, it's great for your mood, your eyesight and is an anti ager.
The typical Western diet is deficient in DHA. Processed foods don't have these omega 3's naturally. You can get them by eating more spinach, olive oil, walnuts and plenty of fish.
The American Heart Association recommends eating fish 2-3 times a week so that you get the DHA you need.
Nutritionists recommend 1-2 mg a day of omega 3's to maintain your health. You can get that by eating more of the above foods or by taking a fish oil supplement. Just make sure you get one that's been molecularly distilled so it's pure.
These nutrients are so important, they can protect you from a premature death. A Harvard study found that a diet deficient in these fatty acids is linked to nearly 100,000 early deaths a year!
Now, that you've seen what DHA is used for, what are you waiting for?
If you're interested in learning more about the uses of DHA and omega 3 fish oil, please visit my website, where I share what products I have personally been using daily for several years.
Jen P. April is a passionate advocate of health and nutrition. To learn more about effective Omega 3's and supplements she recommends after extensive research, visit http://www.omega3-reviews.com.
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