Change Your Brain Every Day OMEGA-3 and Brain Health: The Science from a Leading Expert with Bill Harris
47 snips
Feb 2, 2026 
Bill Harris, nutrition researcher and founder of OmegaQuant, created the Omega-3 Index to track EPA/DHA. He explains the Omega-3 vs Omega-6 differences, why an 8%+ index matters, and how long tests take to change. Practical talk covers dosing, safety, fish and algae sources, and how omega-3s relate to heart, brain and mood outcomes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Omega‑3 Index As A Risk Marker
- Measuring EPA and DHA in red blood cell membranes (Omega‑3 Index) reflects intake and predicts risk for sudden cardiac death.
- The omega-3 index is a stronger predictor for heart disease risk than cholesterol in some studies.
Early Salmon Oil Metabolic Ward Study
- Bill Harris began studying omega-3s during his postdoc by feeding volunteers salmon oil and measuring blood lipids.
- The study showed fish oil lowered cholesterol compared with saturated fat but matched vegetable oil effects on cholesterol.
Average Levels Fall Short
- The average American omega-3 index is about 5% and is far below optimal levels.
- Bill Harris recommends an omega-3 index target above 8% for better health outcomes.
