251: Mental Health, Brain Health & Diabetes: What Does Omega-3 Research Really Show? – Dr. Kaitlin Roke & Elana Natker

Sound Bites A Nutrition Podcast

EPA+DHA Research: Diabetes, Cognition, Depression and Anxiety

Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are important nutrients that play crucial roles in supporting healthy hearts, brains, eyes, joints, inflammation, as well as mental health. They also play an important role in fetal brain and eye development and reducing the risk of early preterm birth. However, 95 percent of Americans – and 80 percent of people worldwide – are not getting enough of these vital nutrients.

While it is possible to obtain EPA and DHA omega-3s through the diet from fatty fish, seafood and some fortified foods, dietary supplements may be helpful or necessary in some cases.

Before starting any supplement regimen, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, as individual needs can vary. Additionally, it’s worthwhile to choose high-quality supplements that undergo testing for purity and potency.

Tune into this episode to learn about:

· different types of omega-3s, recommended amounts and average intakes

· health benefits of and common myths about omega-3s

· food sources of omega-3s and barriers/challenges in increasing consumption

· an overview of the amount of research and the GOED clinical study database

· latest research related to diabetes, brain health and mental health

· limitations of research and future research opportunities

· practical tips for increasing intake of omega-3 rich foods

· what to look for in a supplement

· where to order at-home omega-3 index tests

· resources for the public and health professionals

Full shownotes, transcript and resources at: https://soundbitesrd.com/251