Why is DHA important for proper brain and eye function?
*Depletion of DHA level in the brain due to insufficient dietary intake of omega-3 has been found to result in impaired learning ability. *One of the highest body concentrations of DHA is found in the outer segments of the retina. Omega 3s are important for brain and eye function and are found at cellular level in the grey matter. DHA is actually the most abundant essential fatty acid in the brain and retina, comprising 40% of the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the brain, and 60% of the PUFAs in the retina. 50% of the weight of the membrane is composed of DHA. It helps to maintain the fragile highly fluid microenvironment within the phospholipid components of the grey matter. It is also known to significantly contribute to many basic properties of cell membranes in the nervous system, including elasticity, permeability, and interactions with key regulatory proteins. These mechanisms together support electrical signalling and ultimate brain function such as learning ability and
