Fish Oil and Dementia

Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are well known for their ability to ease inflammation. Dementia describes a group of symptoms associated with disorders of the brain and involve inflammation. A study published in the May 2004 "Archives of Neurology" journal reports high levels of inflammatory proteins are present in patients with dementia and are present before the dementia onset begins, indicating that inflammation increases the risk for dementia. Fish oil may be beneficial for prevention of dementia due to the inflammatory process involved.

Fish Oil and Dementia Risk

Regular fish oil consumption reduces the risk for dementia and Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's is a brain disorder that can cause dementia. A study in the November 2007 journal "Neurology" explains that in over 8,000 participants in the study, those with weekly intake of fish had a decreased risk of Alzheimer's Disease. Regular use of omega-3 oils decreased dementia risks, but more so in people who did not carry the Alzheimer's gene.

Fish Oil and Cognitive Performance

Mixed results have been seen with fish oil and cognitive performance. This is significant, since cognitive performance may predict dementia. The journal "Neurology" in the February 2008 issue published a study which assessed cognitive performance in participants over the age of 65 and were given 1,800 mg of fish oil, 400 mg of fish oil, or a placebo for 26 weeks. The research resulted in no change from baseline for any of the groups. On the other hand, a study in the 2003 issue of "Archives of Neurology" reports a 60 percent smaller risk of dementia in people who consumed fish at least once a week. Older adults aged 65 to 94 were given a variety of cognitive tests to determine cognition level, followed by questionnaires related to health and diet.

Nerve Cell Regeneration and Inflammation

The way in which fish oil provides protection to the brain to prevent dementia involves a few possible mechanisms. Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids known for their anti-inflammatory properties. A study in the 2000 "Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging" explains that fish oils can reduce inflammation in the brain, which is common in dementia. Fish oils may also work to regenerate nerve cells in the brain. Dementia symptoms can appear three years before diagnosis meaning that a healthy diet rich in fish oils may help prevent dementia.

Sources and Dosage

Sources of fish oil include fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, herring and mackerel. Fish oil can also be obtained in supplement form, as well as in oil form found in a bottle. Fish oil may be labeled as omega-3 fatty acids or Docosahexaenoic Acid or DHA. The 2006 "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" explains no set guidelines have been established for fish oil and dementia prevention. Although, the researchers have observed that more than 180 mg of fish oil each day, or approximately 2.7 servings of fish each week, reduces dementia risk by approximately 50 percent.