Fish oil alleviates memory problems in elderly patients

High levels of Omega three may improve memory in those suffering from depression in old age. Researchers from Taipei Medical University (Taiwan) and King's College London (UK) found this in a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. According to their findings, the benefits for cognitive and memory abilities observed in this research are associated with marine-derived Omega-3s, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the Omega-3 prevalent in vegetables. 

Omega-3 and brain health 

Omega-3 fatty acids make up more than 60 percent of the brain mass, where they are concentrated at the membrane level. Research over the years has shown that their presence is necessary for nerve cell multiplication and differentiation. Neurons need these nutrients in order to receive or release neurotransmitters, molecules necessary for nerve impulse transmission. The efficiency of the latter process is important in counteracting the development of certain diseases. For example, low levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin have been shown to increase theincidence of depression. Dopamine deficiency, on the other hand, is associated with an increased likelihood of developing Parkinson's disease or attention deficit disorder, a condition characterized by a decreased ability to focus on immediate tasks. Some studies have suggested that high doses of fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, help maintain adequate levels of both serotonin and dopamine. These fatty acids could also be helpful in treating symptoms of depression. Conversely, irregular Omega-3 consumption could contribute to the development of the major known forms of this disorder.

Omega-3 to awaken memory 

The research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition involved 132 individuals in their senior years with recurrent depression. The authors analyzed the levels of Omega-3 present in red blood cell membranes from blood samples collected on an empty stomach from each participant. At the same time, all individuals underwent cognitive tests aimed at assessing immediate memory, that part that is used whenever a piece of data is stored that, later, is forgotten. It emerged that in individuals suffering from depression, levels ofOmega-3 ALA in red blood cell membranes were significantly associated with immediate memory abilities.

A mosaic yet to be completed 

The results of this research add new details to the knowledge of the benefits of Omega-3s on cognitive abilities. According to the authors, the data collected suggest that low concentrations of these fatty acids in red blood cell membranes could predict the development of cognitive problems in those suffering from depression. In addition, Omega-3 intake could be useful in case this disease strikes in old age. In fact, the scientists explain, in cases of depression these nutrients are able to reduce levels of cortisol, a molecule whose accumulation is associated with a decrease in brain volume linked to episodes of immediate memory loss. 

A valuable ally can be found in. Omegor Mind, a dietary supplement containing Omega-3, and a standardized, patented extract of Bacopa monnieri - Bacomind® - with clinically proven efficacy, combined with omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, omega-6 GLA, zinc and B vitamins. Bacopa monnieri is a plant that has been used for thousands of years in the tradition of Ayurvedic medicine as a memory tonic.

Source 

1. Chiu CC, Frangou S, Chang CJ, Chiu WC, Liu HC, Sun IW, Liu SI, Lu ML, Chen CH, Huang SY, Dewey ME, Stewart R, "Associations between n-3 PUFA concentrations and cognitive function after recovery from late-life depression," Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Feb;95(2):420-7. Epub 2012 Jan 4