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Omega 6 fatty acids: what they are and why you need them What exactly are Omega 6 fatty acids, and why do some experts say they’re bad for us?  How does Omega 6 differ from Omega 3 or 9?  If you find all the information about the omega family confusing, this article should help to clear things up. First, the basics. Fatty acids are the building blocks that make up the mono-unsaturated and polyunsaturated  fats and oils in our diets.  Our bodies require them in the same way they require other nutrients, e.g. amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Fatty acids are divided into three major groups according to their chemical structure: Omega 3, 6 and 9.  Omega 6 fatty acids can help to maintain heart1, skin and hormonal health, IF they’re in balance with the other omegas in your diet.  Omega 6 fatty acids also play a role in forming hormone-like compounds called prostaglandins, which can affect our health and wellbeing in various ways.  They also make up a significant proportion of our cell membranes. What’s the right Omega 6 balance? Research suggests that we need an Omega 6 to Omega 3 ratio of around 2-4:1 to support optimal wellbeing and health.  Unfortunately, the balance of these fatty acids in our Western diet is often closer to 14-25:12. In these ratios, the prostaglandins that we produce can actually create inflammation in our various systems, rather than countering it.  The result is that instead of supporting our health, Omega 6 fatty acids may make certain inflammatory conditions worse. Of course, this isn’t to say that we should avoid Omega 6 fatty acids completely.  However, it does mean that we need to ensure our intake is in balance with our intake of other omega fatty acids. Flaxseed oil is one of the most balanced natural Omega 6 sources Many wholegrain and plant foods contain Omega 6 fatty acids. However, none of them contain Omega 6 in a more naturally balanced ratio with other omegas than flaxseed oil. Flaxseed oil is extracted from the seeds of the flax (Linum usitatissimum) bush. Omega ratios can vary somewhat between individual flaxseed oils, but an Omega 3 content of anything up to 65% is not unusual.  Because the remaining fatty acids include both Omega 6 and 9, flaxseed oil is an ideal choice to provide a balanced omega intake. What to look for in a flaxseed oil supplement Omega 6 oils are particularly heat-sensitive, so ensure that any supplement you choose is cold-pressed.   They also oxidise easily, so it’s important to store liquid flaxseed oil in a completely airtight bottle in the fridge. Or, alternatively, choose a capsule – not only do many people find capsules more convenient to take, but encapsulating the oil helps to prevent oxidation. Finally, try to find an organic product.  If the flaxseeds have been grown organically, they’re certified as being free of toxic residues from pesticides or fertilizers.  And the fewer of those you take in, the better! 1William S. Harris, Dariush Mozaffarian,; Eric Rimm, Penny Kris-Etherton, Lawrence L. Rudel, Lawrence J. Appel, Marguerite M. Engler, Mary B. Engler, Frank Sacks. Omega-6 Fatty Acids and Risk for Cardiovascular Disease. Circulation. 2009;119:902-907 2
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Which Foods Can Boost Your Memory



Part of preventing the risks of certain health conditions is to maintain your body’s wellbeing in the best way possible. A balanced diet is crucial for everyday living and has been proven to improve heart health. There are also specific foods to incorporate into your daily intake to help boost your memory for improved brain function.

These foods are easily accessible and tasty, and have been shown to reduce risks for memory impairment conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Fruits and vegetables

Without a doubt, fruits and vegetables are beneficial to your diet and lifestyle. They come complete with essential vitamins, nutrients and a high water content.

Apples have even been found to reverse memory loss. The consumption of apple juice reduces oxidative stress in your system. Oxidative stress contributes to a decline in cognitive function and also prevents an excess of the betaamyloid protein, which is a classic mark of Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers from Heinrich‐Heine University have found an association between high intakes of fruits and vegetables and better cognitive performance.

Antioxidant levels also increased due to this healthy diet, and helped the body protect against free radicals ‐ damages to human cells that can occur naturally during metabolism, but can be prevented with antioxidants.

Broccoli, kale and kiwifruits are among this group with high levels of vitamin C, which is a common antioxidant and has a wealth of health benefits for your whole body, not just your brain.


Even though berries belong in the above group, they deserve a special menᴄon due to their extremely healthy properties. A study published in the Annals of Neurology has found that there is a correlation between intake of berries and brain function. The study, spanning four years, monitored the long‐term diet of participants. It was noted that those who ate high levels of blueberries and strawberries had a reduced rate of cognitive decline.

These berries also contain antioxidants, and blueberries especially, contain anti‐aging properties so that you look better while boosting your brain performance.


Eggs contain essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Protein helps to reduce your appetite to keep you fuller for longer. Eggs are also low in calories and thus, a great addition in your diet to help you maintain a healthy weight. There have been studies showing an association between excess weight and a higher chance of neurological conditions.

An article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found that people who consume more choline, a nutrient found in egg yolks, performed better in cognitive ability tests. Both verbal and visual memory levels were higher than those that consumed fewer eggs in their diet.


The Harvard School of Public Health has found that moderate consumption of caffeine through the form of coffee can reduce the risk of neurological conditions. Three to five cups are the recommended moderate dose. Not only a sharper memory, caffeine can also reduce the chances of early mortality from neurological and physiological conditions. The National Cancer Institute has found that those that drink only one coffee a day reduce their chances by five per cent. You can live a longer and healthier life with a sharper memory.


Nuts contain high levels of healthy, unsaturated fats. Walnuts, in particular, have been associated with better heart health and lower cholesterol levels. They contain vitamin E, melatonin, omega‐3 fatty acids and antioxidants ‐ all neuroprotective compounds. Walnuts also reduce the buildup of proteins in the brain that can affect cognitive function.

Vitamin E can be used for an abundance of health conditions, including the brain and nervous system. It is also an antioxidant, and along with melatonin, has roles in cancer prevention.

Cashews are another great nut to consume. They contain the mineral magnesium, which helps to protect against age‐related memory loss.


Many types of fatty fish contain Omega‐3 fatty acids. This is a good form of fat that the body cannot produce on its own, and only obtains through foods. Salmon and tuna are particularly high in levels of Omega‐3.

The University of Maryland Medical Centre explains that Omega‐3 is highly concentrated in the human brain, and can help with cognitive and behavioural performance, as well as vision, heart conditions, dry skin and fatigue.

The American Heart Association recommends a consumption of two servings of fish every week.

Better living, better eating, better brain

Each and every one of these foods are common grocery items, and won’t break the bank to improve your brain function. Of course, there is no single nutrient that will benefit your health on its own, so mix things up occasionally and consume a moderate amount of these foods each day.

Another great fact about healthy eating is that it won’t just improve your cognitive ability, but also positively affect your heart health, metabolic system and overall wellbeing.