· By PYM STORE
This is the #1 supplement to prevent cognitive decline, according to neuroscientists
June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, so let’s talk about brain health! Maintaining optimal brain health is crucial for overall well-being, especially as we age. One of the most concerning conditions affecting brain health is Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. Understanding the importance of brain health and taking preventative measures early on is vital for a fulfilling and independent life.
Read on to learn what causes Alzheimer’s disease, why dementia and Alzheimer’s are on the rise, the number one nutrient neuroscientists recommend to prevent cognitive decline and why, and other ways to prevent cognitive decline and boost neuroplasticity.
What causes Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is thought to be caused by the abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells. As brain cells become affected, there’s also a decrease in chemical messengers (called neurotransmitters) involved in sending messages, or signals, between brain cells.
Over time, different areas of the brain shrink. The first areas usually affected are responsible for memories.
You may have heard that Alzheimer’s is genetic and hereditary. While the genes you inherit from your parents can contribute to your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, the actual increase in risk is small, and the genetic mutations are rare.
Even if you have the genetic risk factors, there is still a lot you can do to lower your risk and prevent cognitive decline, which we’ll get into!
Other risk factors are:
- Down’s syndrome
- Head injuries
- Cardiovascular disease brought on by smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
- Untreated depression
- Loneliness or social isolation
- A sedentary lifestyle
Why is Alzheimer’s on the rise?
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. By 2050, this number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million.
Part of the reason is due to an aging population. The U.S. National Institute of Aging estimates people over the age of 65 will make up 16% of the world’s population by 2050, and we know that age is a risk factor for cognitive decline.
But another big reason is the increase in stress, and decrease in nutritious diets, exercise, and sleep. According to the National Institute of Health, obesity is expected to reach a prevalence of 48.9% among American adults by 2030.
So, what is the number 1 thing you can do to boost your brain health, according to neuroscientists?
“While omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for optimal brain health, our bodies cannot produce them naturally. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain them through diet or supplements. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Additionally, plant-based sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds and walnuts are rich in omega-3s. For those who struggle to incorporate enough omega-3-rich foods into their diet, I often recommend daily omega-3 supplements as a convenient and reliable way to meet the body’s needs,” says Dr. Raghu Appasani, Neuroscientist, Psychiatrist, and Chief Medical Officer at PYM.
PYM’s Mood Omegas were formulated to nourish your brain with the omega-3 fatty acids you need to prevent cognitive decline. Not to mention, they also support mood health, emotional well-being, and focus.
Sustainably sourced from deep sea, cold water sardines and mackerel in Chile, Mood Omegas contain the fatty acid DHA to support neurotransmitter function and reduce brain fog, and EPA to lower brain inflammation.
Our formulation also includes an added touch of citrus, so there’s no fishy aftertaste.
How omega-3 fatty acids help prevent cognitive decline
While we can’t make ourselves stop aging (yet), we CAN do the best we can to take good care of our brains by feeding them the nutrients they need to thrive!
Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids significantly lowered the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This is for a few reasons:
Brain structure and function:
Omega-3 fatty acids are a fundamental component of efficient communication between brain cells. When you’re deficient in these fatty acids, you experience brain fog, fatigue, and memory problems.
Anti-inflammatory properties:
Chronic inflammation in the brain is believed to contribute to the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce brain inflammation. This helps protect brain cells from damage and preserve cognitive function.
Antioxidant activity:
Omega-3 fatty acids also exhibit antioxidant properties, which means they can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the brain. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells and contribute to oxidative stress, a process implicated in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Beta-amyloid regulation:
Beta-amyloid is a protein associated with the formation of plaques in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can influence the production and clearance of beta-amyloid, potentially reducing its accumulation in the brain and slowing down the progression of Alzheimer’s.
Why aren't Mood Omega’s vegan?
Algae-based omega-3 supplements can be a reliable source of EPA and DHA. These omega-3 fatty acids are the same ones found in fish, as fish obtain them from consuming algae.
However, there isn’t as much clinical research out there supporting the use of algae-based supplements as there is for fish oil supplements.
Our scientific advisory board continues to stay up to date on the latest research and keep our customers best interests at heart.
Other ways to prevent cognitive decline and boost brain health
Outside of supplementing with omega-3s, there are plenty of other things you can do to prevent cognitive decline, boost neuroplasticity, and lower your risk of neurodegenerative diseases!
Additional supplements to nourish your brain
Other nutrients that are super impactful for your brain health are magnesium, probiotics, B vitamins, and amino acids. These help reduce stress and inflammation, regulate your nervous system, and boost neurotransmitter function.
Psst: You can get all of these at a huge discount in our Total Reset Bundle!
Spend time with loved ones
Strong social connections provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Emotional well-being and stress management are crucial for brain health! Plus, spending time with loved ones releases oxytocin, a neurotransmitter that reduces stress and generates feelings of happiness and connection.
Engage in brain games and puzzles
Regular mental stimulation through activities like puzzles, crosswords, and brain games can enhance cognitive function and promote brain health.
Continuously learn new things
Lifelong learning has been linked to maintaining brain health. Engaging in activities that challenge the mind, such as learning a new language or picking up a musical instrument, can help preserve cognitive abilities.
Prioritize good sleep
Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including brain function. It is during sleep that our brains consolidate memories and repair cellular damage. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and create a restful sleeping environment.
Get regular exercise
Exercise has been shown in studies to enhance neuroplasticity and delay Alzheimer’s disease by shaping and changing the structure of the brain itself.
We hope this helped to stimulate your brain and prepare your mind for aging!