Omega-3 fatty acids, essential polyunsaturated fats, may play a positive role in Alzheimer's disease. Characterized by loss of brain function with symptoms such as dementia, confusion and reduced cognitive skills, Alzheimer's link to omega-3 fatty acid intake is not scientifically confirmed. Although some studies show a positive link, more studies are necessary, and you should always consult a doctor first if you're considering this alternative therapy.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for good health and are required in a diet because your body can't make its own. Docosahexaenoic acid, DHA, and eicosapentaenoic acid, EPA, are the two important types of omega-3s most commonly associated with health benefits. By eating a diet rich in fatty cold-water fish such as halibut, salmon and tuna, you obtain a lot of healthy omega-3s. If you're reluctant to eat a lot of fish, fish oil supplements are available. Much research has been done on the beneficial health effects of omega-3 fatty acids, including their effects on the brain.
Alzheimer's Disease and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
When you eat fish, concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids increase and concentrate in the brain. The brain is the source of problems in Alzheimer's disease. The degeneration of parts of the brain, along with the hallmark signs of amyloid plaques and tangles bring about decreased communication among neurons, or nerve cells. Omega-3 fatty acids' role in helping to strengthen brain tissue and improving symptoms of Alzheimer's, such as memory and cognitive loss, continue to be studied.
Research
The Alzheimer's Association cites two important studies presented at a 2009 conference on Alzheimer's disease. Both studies highlight the role of DHA in Alzheimer's disease and present conflicting results. In the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study, participants suffering from mild to moderate Alzheimer's taking 2 g of DHA daily showed no improvement in symptoms compared to participants taking a placebo. The other study, called Memory Improvement with DHA, showed that Alzheimer's patients taking 900 mg of DHA per day had improved scores on memory tests. More studies are necessary before omega-3 fatty acids are recommended for Alzheimer's disease.
Sources and Dosing
Other food sources of essential omega-3 fatty acids include herring, sardines and tuna. Omega-3 fatty acids found in flax seeds, soybeans, soybean oil, canola oil, pumpkin oil, and walnuts and walnut oil are in the form of an omega-3 called alpha-linolenic acid, ALA. This form of omega-3 fatty acids is not mentioned in research regarding Alzheimer's disease. If taking fish oil supplements, be aware of possible side effects, including diarrhea, gas and bloating and some interactions with blood thinning and diabetes medications.
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