Fish oil seems to be touted as a cure-all for almost any physical and mental complaint you may experience. Of course, no dietary supplement is a cure-all. However, according to the Nature Cures Clinic, a naturopathic acupuncture clinic in Portland, Oregon, fish oil may help with lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, enhancing weight loss and potentially helping to slow down the course of age-related memory diseases like dementia. Fish oil may also improve the functioning of your memory as you age. However, you should always inform your doctor if you plan to take a fish oil supplement.
About Fish Oil
Fish oil is one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids play a number of important biological roles, such as reducing inflammation and the risk of heart disease and helping with brain functioning. Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in cognitive functioning and may help stave off certain age-related memory disorders. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids cannot be manufactured by your body -- you must obtain them from dietary sources. Omega-3 fatty acids are naturally found in fish, such as salmon, herring and tuna, as well as other sources like plant oils and nuts.
Facts about Memory Loss
Everyone experiences occasional moments of forgetfulness. According to FamilyDoctor.org, you begin to lose a few brain cells when you're in your 20s. This loss of brain cells continues as you age. Some degree of memory loss is normal. Age-related memory loss usually does not have an impact on memories from the distant past; it usually has an effect on recent memory. You may experience problems remembering conversations you just had or people you just met. Alzheimer's disease is a serious form of dementia, resulting in severe memory loss and problems with cognition. You can also suffer memory loss due to brain trauma, alcohol and drug abuse, and other medical illnesses. Some recent research has shown that fish oil may help to improve symptoms of memory loss.
Clinical Evidence
A number of clinical studies have been conducted regarding the benefits of fish and fish oil on memory impairments. One long-term study, published in the October 2002 issue of the "British Medical Journal," showed that eating fish was associated with a decreased likelihood of dementia. Another study, published in the June 2006 issue of the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," demonstrated that 180 mg/d of dietary DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, present in fish and fish oil, is associated with a 50 percent reduction in dementia risk. An additional long-term study, published in the November 2006 issue of the journal, "Neurology," showed the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids on reducing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Considerations
While fish oil supplements may help memory loss and prevent certain types of age-related memory impairments, you should not use fish oil to cure any symptoms you may be experiencing. Seek medical attention to discuss your symptoms and obtain treatment advice. Fish oil supplements may cause undesirable side effects, such as flatulence, belching and digestive disorders. Additionally, fish oil may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medication. Consult your doctor prior to using a fish oil supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or take any over-the-counter or prescription medications.
References
- Nature Cures Clinic: Fish Oil: Cure-All?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- FamilyDoctor.org: Memory Loss with Aging: What's Normal, What's Not
- "British Medical Journal"; Fish, Meat and Risk of Dementia...; P. Barberger-Gateau,et al; October 2002
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Potential Role of Dietary n-3 Fatty Acids...; E. Johnson and E. Schaefer; June 2006
- "Neurology"; Dietary Patterns and Risk of Dementia; P. Barberger-Gateau, et al; Nov. 2007
