I was reading an excellent review of the necessity of healthy fats for a proper brain function. The brain is almost 60% fat. Essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA are not produced in the body and must be consumed in the diet. Essential fatty acids determine the brain's integrity and performance.
These healthy fats have a powerful effect on:
*Brain's Blood Flow
*Brain's Immune System (Yes, there is an immune system in the brain)
*The Neurotransmitter System (Serotonin, Dopamine, etc.)
In the brain, there is a High Turnover of Fats. It means that the fats are used fast, and it needs to be replaced more quickly than proteins.
Without daily healthy fats, the brain is going to be like a CAR ENGINE without oil. We have a Broken Brain literally. This situation occurs in autism, ADHD, dementia, and other neurodegenerative/neurodevelopmental diseases.
Healthy fats from avocados, extra-virgin olive oil, flax seeds, high-quality concentrated DHA from fish or algae are like changing the car's oil. Still, instead of doing it every three months, it should be a daily endeavor.
By the way, I recommend the movie Lorenzo's Oil. You may find it on Amazon. It's a compelling true story of the journey of the parents of a special needs child with ALS and how the parents were successful in helping their son.
"Brain aging is optional; you just have to
get serious about nutrition."
Daniel Amen, MD
Psychiatrist and Clinical Director of Amen Clinics
Nine Times NY Times Best-Seller Author
David Rivas, RPh, MSc, CCN
Pharmacist and Clinical Nutritionist/Consultant
References:
Chang, C. Y., Ke, D. S., & Chen, J. Y. (2009). Essential fatty acids and human brain. Acta Neurol Taiwan, 18(4), 231-41.
Das, U. N. (2012). Is multiple sclerosis a proresolution deficiency disorder?. Nutrition, 28(10), 951-958.
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