Seafood, Brain Health & Microplastics: What You Need to Know

Sep 1

2 min read

At Egan Wellness & Med Spa, we believe nutrition is one of the foundations of healthy aging—and that includes nourishing the brain.

🧠 Is Seafood Still “Brain Food”?

Absolutely. Psychiatrist and nutritional psychiatry expert Dr. Drew Ramsey emphasizes seafood as an important source of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.

DHA is a major structural component of the brain and is found naturally in significant amounts primarily in seafood. EPA and DHA support healthy brain function and are important nutrients as we focus on cognitive health and longevity.

Seafood also provides other valuable nutrients, including vitamin B12, iodine, iron, selenium and high-quality protein.

🐟 What About Microplastics?

Microplastics are an emerging health concern, and studies have detected plastic particles in various human tissues, including the brain. Some seafood can contain microplastics, particularly shellfish and small fish.

However, seafood is not necessarily our largest source of exposure. Microplastics can also come from household dust, air, drinking water and everyday plastic products.

For this reason, eliminating nutrient-dense seafood from your diet because of microplastic concerns may not be the best approach.

🌊 Choose Seafood—Be Thoughtful About It

Rather than avoiding seafood, consider ways to reduce unnecessary exposure while continuing to benefit from its nutritional value:

• Choose wild-caught salmon, sardines, anchovies and other nutrient-dense fish when appropriate.• Vary your seafood choices rather than eating the same species every day.• Avoid heating food in plastic containers.• Use glass or stainless steel for food and beverages whenever practical.• Consider an air purifier and regular dust removal to reduce household exposure.• Choose natural fibers when possible for clothing and household items.

🧠 Your Brain Needs Nutrients

At Egan Wellness & Med Spa, our approach to wellness looks beyond calories and weight. We consider the nutrients your body and brain need for healthy aging, mitochondrial function, metabolic health and cognitive longevity.

Seafood can be an important part of that strategy.

Don't let fear of microplastics keep you from eating nutrient-dense foods. Instead, focus on reducing your overall exposure to plastics while continuing to provide your brain with the nutrients it needs.

Eat well. Think well. Age well.