Show notes
Omega-3 fatty acids have long been lauded for heart health benefits. Yet, emerging research now points to an even more profound impact, directly on our most complex organ: the brain. Today, we delve into the critical, often misunderstood, role of omega-3s in cognitive function, mental well-being, and even the prevention of neurodegenerative conditions like dementia.We are joined by Dr. Bill Harris, a globally recognised authority in omega-3 fatty acid research. Bill is a Professor at the University of South Dakota and has over 300 peer-reviewed publications. His foundational work includes pioneering studies on fish oil in the 1980s and shaping American Heart Association scientific statements. In this episode, Dr. Harris - along with ZOE's Chief Scientist Professor Sarah Berry - illuminate why most individuals may be operating with suboptimal omega-3 levels, and the tangible implications this has for mood regulation, anxiety, and long-term brain resilience. We navigate nuances between omega-3 types like EPA and DHA, debunk common misconceptions surrounding plant-based sources and mercury content in fish, and explore the precise methods for assessing and improving your own "Omega-3 Index."Unwrap the truth about your food š ā ā Get the ZOE appā š± Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - ā Daily 30+ā *Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune systemFollow ZOE onā Instagramā .Measure your Omega 3s https://omegaquant.com/https://omegaquant.com/TimecodesšBooks by our ZOE Scientistsā The Food For Life Cookbookā ā Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amatiā ā Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spectorā Free resources from ZOEā Live Healthier: Top 10 Tips From ZOE Science & Nutritionā ā Gut Guide - For a Healthier Microbiome in Weeksā Ā Mentioned in today's episodeā Associations of plasma omega-3 fatty acid levels and reported fish oil supplement use with depression and anxiety: A cross-sectional analysis from the UK Biobank, 2025 The Association Between Plasma Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Suicidal Ideation/Self-harm in the United Kingdom Biobank, 2025, Plasma Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Risk for Incident Dementia in the UK Biobank Study: A Closer Look, 2013, NutrientsFish consumption advice is depriving children of neurolipids and other nutrients essential to brain and eye development, 2025, NeuroToxicology Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know ā hereā .Episode transcripts are available ā hereā .