Welcome back to my series on nutrition for ADHD and brain health!
In this second tip, we're diving into the magical world of Omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are like the cool kids of the fat world, and they play a crucial role in supporting our brain health.
TIP # 2: Omega-3 Magic
Okay, so let’s talk about Omega-3 Fatty Acids and how they can help with ADHD symptoms. Omega-3s, a.k.a. APA, DHA & EPA are essential fats that our bodies can’t make on their own, so we have to get them from our diet.
Now, you might be thinking, “why do I care about Omega-3s?”
Well, for starters, they’re super important for brain health. In fact, the brain is made up of 60% fat, and Omega-3s are a key component of that fat. So, it’s no surprise that Omega-3s have been shown to be helpful in managing ADHD symptoms.
Research has found that children with ADHD tend to have lower levels of Omega-3s in their blood compared to kids without ADHD. And, studies have shown that supplementing with Omega-3s can improve attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in children with ADHD.
But how exactly do Omega-3s do all this?
Well, it’s believed that they help with brain function by reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow to the brain. Plus, they’re involved in the production of neurotransmitters, which are the chemical messengers in our brains that help us think, feel, and behave.
So, where can you find these Omega-3s?
The best sources are fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines and trout. But if you’re not a fan of fish (or just don’t eat it often enough), you can also get Omega-3s from other sources like chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, and soybeans.
If you’re looking for an easy way to add more Omega-3s into your diet, you could try making my favourite (and family-friendly) salmon patties. Not only are these salmon patties packed with Omega-3s, but they’re also a great source of protein and other nutrients that can help support brain health and manage ADHD symptoms.
So, give ’em a try and see how you feel!
Stay tuned for my next tip on nutrition for ADHD and brain health: Tip #3: Pump the Micronutrient Powerhouses!
If you're looking for support with your family's health goals, or need support with mental health, ADHD, Autism or other neurodiverse conditions, feel free to book a in a FREE discovery call so we can chat to see if Holistic Nutrition is a good fit!