Sex differences with Omega-3 marine fats

Published today in the scientific literature is a study reporting that women have more DHA than men, as measured in blood (measuring blood is one way to get an idea of how much total omega-3 one has in the body). This study also reported that men have more EPA than women, but the difference was not as pronounced. You can read the research abstract at: http://www.pharmaomega.com/shop/library/article.aspx?id=314&catid=7

Now, I read a lot of research, and most of it is technical and serious. This study has serious implications, but it also touches my funny bone. It’s been shown that, in general, women are better multi-taskers than men. Women also tend to do better on tests. DHA is an omega-3 fat that is stored in the brain, is critical for optimal development of the brain in infants, and research is suggesting that the more DHA we have as we age, the better our brains will function as we age.

In all seriousness, part of the reason women have more DHA is related to reproduction and survival of the species. Nonetheless, here’s a fun thought to ponder: If women have more DHA than men, does that mean women are smarter?