The impact of Alzheimer’s disease is expected to triple in the coming decades and no cure has yet been found. Recently, interest in dietary approaches for the prevention of cognitive decline has increased. THE omega-3 fatty acids showed anti-amyloid, anti-tau, and anti-inflammatory actions in animal brains. For patients with high levels of omega-3s, blood flow to specific areas of the brain is increased, according to results of a study published in the medical journal Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Researchers from the University of South Dakota in the United States conducted a study with 166 participants who were categorized into two groups with greater omega-3 concentrations. The scientists used state-of-the-art brain imaging, single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), a technique capable of measuring blood flow in the brain. SPECT was conducted on 128 brain regions as each participant completed neurocognitive tests.
Omega-3s promote blood flow to the brain
Overall, the study showed positive relationships between omega-3 levels, cerebral blood flow, and cognition. “This is very important research because it shows a correlation between lower omega-3 fatty acid levels and low brain blood flow to regions important for learning, memory, depression and dementia “, says lead author Daniel G. Amen.
“This study is a major step forward in demonstrating the value of nutritional intervention for brain health using the latest brain imaging,” commented George Perry, professor of biology at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Read also:
Alzheimer’s: the number of deaths increases by 55% in the United States
Alzheimer’s: a quiz to test your knowledge of the disease
Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease