Which Fish are Best For Your Brain?

A reader asked, is fish really good for brain function and if so which fish is best? Some fish contain Omega 3 fatty acids which have been shown to improve memory function, increase serotonin (elevate mood) and support longer-lasting cells and more efficient messaging.

Mindpower Magazine has an interesting post claiming that Tilapa (a popular fish) has little brain benefit as it contains Omega 6 rather than Omega 3 fatty acids. Here is their list of the best brain fish:

  • Salmon (wild salmon is preferred to the farmed variety)
  • Mackerel
  • Trout
  • Whitefish
  • Bluefin Tuna
  • Sardines

Jean Carper, author of Your Miracle Brain (discussed in another post) offers this list of Ten Fish with the Most Smart Fats:

  • Anchovy
  • Bluefish
  • Herring
  • Mackerel
  • Sablefish
  • Salmon
  • Sardines
  • Lake Trout
  • Tuna, bluefin
  • Whitefish

There is considerable overlap in the two lists. Interested to hear from reader about their favorite brain fish or about which fish to avoid and why.

Sources:

Image of Fresh Fish Market and image of Omega-3 Poster