Why Eating Fish Can Be Good for Your Brain

Are you a fan of fish? If the answer is yes, that spells good news for your brain health.

People who eat a lot of seafood, particularly “fatty” fish, may be at lower risk for the loss of thinking skills that can be a result of Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, in 2018, AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health (GCBH) put fish on its list of encouraged foods.

What is it exactly about fatty fish, such as salmon, anchovies and halibut, that serve up potential brain benefits? Researchers aren’t completely sure but they speculate that it’s the omega-3s found in fish oil.

In your body, omega-3s are an important part of the membrane around the exterior of every cell in your body. They give your body energy and also support your heart, blood vessels, lungs, immune system and the glands that produce hormones. There are three main types of omega-3s: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA is found in large quantities in the eyes and the brain.

The GCBH recommends people eat at least one serving of non-fried fish per week for better brain health. But if you can’t eat fish, ask your health care provider about whether you should take a supplement containing DHA and EPA as an alternative.

Read more about the research behind fish’s brain benefits in this article on Staying Sharp.

_{This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide any expert, professional or specialty advice or recommendations. Readers are urged to consult with their medical providers for all questions.}