Omega-3 for the brain: high levels in red blood cells counter dementia
Omega 3 brain: EPA and DHA in red blood cells help fight dementia
High levels ofOmega 3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in red blood cell membranes counteractbrain aging as well as the onset of dementia. This was discovered by a team of researchers led by Zaldy Tan of the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, USA. The study was published in the journal Neurology. Based on the data collected, the scientists were able to conclude that in old age this parameter positively influences both brain size and memory abilities.
Omega-3 for brain wellness
Several research studies have associated a diet rich in Omega-3s with reduced risk of dementia. High blood levels of DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid, another food-derived Omega-3) have also been shown to correspond to a lower likelihood of developing certain neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, DHA, a nutrient abundant in fatty fish and fish oil supplements, enables:
- Reduce blood pressure;
- Counteracting atherosclerosis;
- Decrease triglyceride levels.
All of these actions have a positive effect on the vascular system and can help delay the onset of symptoms ofbrain aging.
Omega-3 against dementia: new confirmations
The new study involved 1,575 men and women with an average age of 67 years who did not have dementia. The group underwent the following tests:
- Measurement of levels of omega-3 fatty acids contained in the red blood cell membrane;
- Determination of their brain volume by MRI;
- assessment of memory and other cognitive functions through specific tests.
It was found that individuals with lower levels of DHA, compared with participants characterized by the presence of higher amounts, had significantly lower brain size, visual memory, executive and organizational abilities. In individuals in whom DHA is present in the lowest amounts, gray matter volume is also lower. The authors explained that this parameter is an indication of problems at the level of smaller caliber vessels, and has been associated with an increased risk of stroke and dementia.
Omega-3 for a younger brain
The researchers highlight the importance of the finding, noting that this is the first study to find an association between the fatty acid composition of red blood cell membranes and the presence of early indicators of the development of dementia. Indeed in this case, low levels of DHA were correlated with reduced brain size and defects in cognitive abilities in individuals not yet affected by dementia. According to Tan, the observed differences correspond to a brain that is older, structure-wise, by about 2 years. As the authors themselves point out, new research will allow them to confirm the results obtained in their studies and may deepen the analysis by including data regarding the possible development of dementia.
Source
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