EPA & DHA: Salmon Oil's Defense Against Brain Inflammation

Seafood may be one of the best sources of neuro-nutrients (including some that many people may lack in their diet). Research shows that consuming one to two servings of fatty fish (like salmon) per week can reduce the risk of heart challenges by up to 36%.*¹

Why? Well, the inflammatory response may actually play an important part in that.

Ongoing research suggests that the Omega-3 fats found in salmon (and Salmon Oil) may suppress the body's inflammatory response.^2,3 This is likely why the U.S. Federal Dietary Guidelines recommend Americans consume at least 8 oz of seafood per week.⁴ However, only 10-20% of Americans meet these guidelines.*⁵

Why Salmon Oil and not just any other fish oil?

Salmon Oil is obtained from salmon—a top-notch source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids, especially DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid). Salmon's high amount of quality Omega-3 DHA and EPA is also one of the reasons why we at HCF® prefer it over other fish (or plant foods).

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, just one tablespoon of Salmon Oil contains 4.25 grams of combined EPA and DHA.⁶

Compare that to other oils: Menhaden Oil has 2.95 grams, Sardine Oil 2.8 grams, and Cod Liver Oil just under 2.4 grams per tablespoon. The least amount of EPA and DHA are typically found in Herring Oil, with just about 1.4 grams per tablespoon.

The proportion of DHA and EPA can also vary among different fish oils.⁷

Salmon Oil typically has a higher ratio of DHA to EPA. For instance, Salmon Oil contains about 40% DHA and 30% EPA (which may be optimal for cognitive and neurological health).*

In contrast, herring (10% DHA and 30% EPA) and menhaden oils (20% DHA and 30% EPA) have higher EPA content, making them potentially more suitable for reducing systemic inflammation.*⁸

When it comes to plant-based Omega-3 sources, most contain ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid).

Now, a potential issue with ALA is that your body has to convert it into DHA and EPA for use. And this conversion process is energy-consuming and not very efficient.*

Only about 1-10% of ALA is typically converted to EPA, and even less (0.5-5%) is converted to DHA.*⁹

Did you know?

Algae oil (obtained from algae) may offer a direct source of DHA, similar to Salmon Oil, and is comparable in quality and amount. This makes it an excellent plant-based alternative for those looking to boost their DHA intake without relying on fish.*

Your body's immune system may rely heavily on the inflammatory response.

Inflammation is a natural and essential process for fighting infections and healing injuries. However, long-term inflammation may contribute to a number of health concerns (including heart challenges, blood sugar imbalances, and cognitive challenges).*^10,11

The Omega-3 Fatty acids found in Salmon Oil—particularly DHA and EPA—may play a role in partially blocking many aspects of the inflammatory process and supporting the health of your entire brain system (Head [1st Brain], Heart [2nd Brain], and Gut [3rd Brain]).*¹²

Head (Mental Intelligence Center)

Neuroinflammation (or Central Nervous System inflammation) can negatively affect cognitive health, potentially contributing to age-associated cognitive and movement challenges.*¹³

DHA—a significant structural component of the brain and retina—may support cognitive function and protect neurons from inflammatory damage.*

A 2019 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences looked into the potential neuroprotective properties of Omega-3 Fatty Acids (specifically DHA).¹⁴

This study—conducted on various models—suggests that DHA may help maintain neuronal cell membrane integrity and reduce neuroinflammation, which is common in age-associated cognitive and movement challenges.*

The findings indicate that DHA supplementation may improve cognitive functions and slow cognitive decline by supporting synaptic plasticity and neuronal communication.*

Heart (Emotional Intelligence Center)

Ongoing research suggests that long-term inflammation may be a determinant factor in the development of heart challenges.*¹⁵

Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Salmon Oil may help reduce risk factors for coronary heart disease by lowering hypertension, high triglycerides, and high LDL cholesterol.*

These fatty acids may also help manage blood pressure levels, potentially contributing to overall cardiovascular health.*¹⁵

For example, a 2019 systematic review concluded that DHA—compared to EPA—may be particularly more beneficial for heart and cardiovascular function.*¹⁶

Another 2016 study published in the medical journal Circulation showed that those who consumed higher doses of Omega-3 fish oil for six months following a cardiac event showed improved heart function and reduced biomarkers of systemic inflammation.*¹⁷

Gut (Physical Intelligence Center)

The gut-brain axis is a complex communication network between the gut and the brain. And because your gut and your brain are in such close connection, inflammation in the gut that may cause gastrointestinal challenges may also impact mental health.*

However, the Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Salmon Oil may reduce gut inflammation, potentially improving gut health and reducing symptoms of persistent digestive tract inflammation and gut discomfort and irregularity.*^18,19