Well, this should get a reaction

Your reaction times can be a sign of your physical and mental health. Is there anything you can do to improve them? Plus, pass the smelling salts?

Today's Ingredients How do you rate your reactions? Are yours like a cat's or more like those of a distracted tree sloth? Is there anything you can do to nurture lightning-fast reflexes, or is it inevitable that they decline with age? There is some evidence for good old omega-3 fatty acids, but we'll get into that below. Also in today's Nutrition Edition:   • Are smelling salts bad for you?   • Looks like strawbs are good for your heart   • Ozempic for folks over 65   • High dose omega-3s to try   • Tick-borne "red meat" allergy on the rise   • How a little activity can help ward off cancer Stay sharp, Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Healthline   Written by Tim Snaith August 3, 2023 • 5 min read Main Course Anything to get a reaction? Ever feel like you're always a split second too slow? Maybe when a mug falls out of the cupboard or when playing your favorite video game? While your reaction time increases with age, research suggests that slower reaction times can be linked to decreased cognitive function and even earlier death. But don't despair! You can learn to live with this change, or you can try dietary strategies like these to help sharpen those reflexes: 🐟 Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, omega-3s may quicken responses by optimizing neuron signaling. Multiple studies link higher omega-3 intake and blood levels to faster visual and auditory reaction times in both athletes and nonathletes. ☕️ Caffeine: America's favorite stimulant, caffeine activates your central nervous system. Research suggests that consuming caffeine can temporarily speed up reaction times, though tolerance builds with regular use. 🍵 L-theanine: This amino acid found in green tea pairs well with caffeine to offset jitteriness. Early research suggests it may aid focus and cognitive processing in students and older adults. 🍠 Ginseng: While more research is needed, a small 2005 study found that ginseng extracts improved reaction times in young adults. It may also boost mental energy. Beyond supplements, here are some activities and habits that may help you avoid mental fatigue and maintain faster reaction times as you age:   • staying hydrated   • limiting alcohol   • playing a musical instrument   • getting enough sleep 💡 Takeaway: Combining good nutrition, training, and lifestyle habits provides a solid foundation for optimized reaction time. Consult your doctor before making any major dietary changes or if you're concerned about a noticeable increase in your reaction time. Kitchen Kit What we're using I often feel sharp enough to swipe a live salmon out of the river, and I put it down to taking plenty of fish oil capsules after a meal. Our reviewers like this supplement because a couple of capsules give you a generous 2,000 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids. It's sourced from small, wild-caught fish such as mackerel, anchovies, and sardines that have been caught using sustainable fishing practices. The oil also undergoes a purification process that helps eliminate any fishy odor or aftertaste. Every product we recommend has gone through Healthline's vetting process. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline is owned by RVO Health.   Viva Naturals Triple Strength Omega 3 Fish Oil Supplement 4.6  |  9,500+ ratings Details: From wild and sustainably caught fish Shop now Fitness Fuel Pass the smelling salts? Some professional athletes and amateur weightlifters use smelling salts to improve their performance. (If you've ever caught a whiff of something pungent in your gym, that's probably what it was.) But what are smelling salts, and are they safe? Let's take a closer look. What are smelling salts? Smelling salts are a mixture of diluted ammonia, water, and perfume or alcohol. The ammonia triggers irritation and rapid breathing when inhaled. They originated in ancient times and were historically used to revive people who had fainted. Today, some athletes use them because they believe the salts provide extra energy and focus before competitions. The stimulant effect. Inhaling smelling salts does speed up breathing and blood flow to your brain, but the boost may be solely psychological. A small 2014 study found no actual improvement in athletic performance, although more research is needed. Potential risks. Improper use and overuse come with risks since ammonia is a toxic substance. Respiratory irritation, nasal passage burns, and headaches are possible side effects. Rapid inhalation can also worsen head and neck injuries, a major concern in contact sports. Allowing play too soon after concussions and ignoring pain from injuries are potential dangers as well. Consider this expert advice to stay safe while sniffing salts:   • Use smelling salts only briefly.   • Hold them 4 or more inches away to reduce the risk of harm.   • Avoid them if you have asthma or other respiratory issues.   • Check with your doctor before use if you are pregnant or have any health concerns. Did you like today's email? Was it too fitness-y or just right with valuable nutrition know-how? Let us know at nutritionedition@healthline.com. (Please note that we may use your name and response in an upcoming newsletter!) the takeout What we're digesting ℹ️ Should you take Ozempic if you're over 65? Taking GLP-1 drugs can be risky for people over 65. Here's why and what you can do about it. 🍓 Strawberries improve heart and brain health. New research suggests that eating strawberries every day can improve cognitive function, lower blood pressure, and more. 🥩 Tick-borne "red meat" allergy is becoming more common. Case numbers are growing in certain parts of the United States, but most doctors don't know how to spot it. 🛍️ Taking the stairs or lugging groceries can reduce your cancer risk. Even a few minutes of vigorous activity each day can reduce the risk of certain cancers. That's all for today. Ginger is back with a very nutritious, creative, and crispy-skinned recipe in Sunday's Nutrition Edition. You'll love it. Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we'll see you again soon!   This edition was powered by the best things in life.

View in browser Did a friend send you this email? Subscribe here. To see all newsletters, click here. Privacy   |   Unsubscribe Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. © 2023 Healthline Media LLC 275 7th Ave., 24th Floor New York, NY 10001