As exams loom, parents are in overdrive trying to help get their children across the finish line of study preparation. Making the right nutritional choices is not always a priority for students during this stressful time and as a result, convenience foods can start to look a lot more appetising! Omega-3 fatty acids help to build brain cell membranes, promote new brain cell formation, as well as aiding hormone synthesis which is immensely important for adolescents. Some key benefits commonly associated with omega-3 include better memory and general brain health, which is why it is so important to get omega-3 fats from the right foods and supplements.
Foods that contain omega-3 include: fresh tuna (omega-3 does not survive when it comes to tinned tuna ), salmon (which also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm skin eruptions like acne and eczema ), anchovies, mackerel, and omega-3 eggs. Unfortunately, exam schedules do not always allow time for extensive food preparation so it can be worth considering convenient alternatives.
Eskimo Brain 3.6.9: Fish oil has two major omega-3 components: EPA and DHA. When it comes to learning, DHA is king. With about 30 per cent of brain fat as DHA, it stands to reason that your body benefits from an extra supply. DHA has been shown to improve memory and learning ability, is calming for people with ADD or ADHD, may help to reduce depression and anxiety, and is uniquely beneficial for brain and nerve cells. Eskimo Brain 3.6.9 combines the unique stable fish oil, Eskimo-3, with ingredients such as CoQ10 and GLA to optimise brain and energy support and comes in liquid or capsule forms. Eskimo was awarded the Friend of the Sea certification in recognition of their commitment to sustainable fishing practices and also from their fishery that supplies the oil for Eskimo-3.
Higher Nature guarantee their fish oils are free from pollutants such as PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls, a class of man-made chemicals ). Each batch is screened and tested. The gentle purification process also ensures that the goodness of the fish oil is retained and that the valuable fatty acids are not damaged. Higher Nature add just enough natural vitamin E to the oil to protect it from damaging oxidation.
Chia Bia chia seeds are a simple way to get more nutrients into your diet. They are the highest plant-based source of omega-3 in the world, are high in fibre and a source of protein. Chia seeds have a soft shell meaning the nutrients are easily absorbed by the body, without the need to grind. Chia seeds are very versatile, they can be sprinkled, tossed, mixed, stirred, or blended into food and drinks. Chia seeds are subtle tasting and require no preparation.
Available in health stores and pharmacies nationwide.
