Health & Medical Health News & Knowledge

Alzheimer"s - Oops I Forgot to Take My Fish Oil Supplements

Alzheimer's is a neuro degenerative disorder which is progressive in its effects. It affects over 4.5 million adults in the United States. As the population ages that number may approach 20 million by 2050. Of people over 65 five percent have Alzheimer's. By age eighty that figure rises to one half.

Alzheimer's disease is an extremely debilitating condition. It affects thinking, learning and memory. It usually begins with a decline in episodic memory. Medications available are used to treat the symptoms. However these medications have no effect on the basic causes and the progression of the disease.

Studies have shown that eating fish, high in essential omega-3 fatty acids, has an effect against Alzheimer's disease. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements may also slow the cognitive decline in patients with very mild Alzheimer's.

DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid slows the growth of two types of brain lesions that are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease. A diet rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can help prevent the development of Alzheimer's.

The omega-3 fatty acid DHA slows the accumulation of tau which is a protein that leads to the development of neurofibrillary tangles. These neurofibrillary tangles are one of the common brain lesions present in Alzheimer's sufferers. DHA also reduces the levels of beta amyloid, a protein which clumps in the brain and forms plaques, another Alzheimer's lesion.

Diet and lifestyle changes are important to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Mental stimulation, exercise, avoiding stress and smoking, dietary can significantly improve the odds against Alzheimer's.

Cold water oily fish contain high levels of the Omega 3 fatty acid DHA. Eating these fish instead of meat will increase the intake of DHA and improve the chances of avoiding Alzheimer's. It is a long term dietary change rather than a quick fix.

Fish that are rich in these fatty acids include salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. These fish accumulate the Omega 3 rich oils from the algae in their diet.

Omega 3 fatty acids are healthy essential fats that cannot be manufactured by the human body but must be included in the diet.

As an alternative or supplement to eating fish taking concentrated fish oil supplements can provide the Omega 3 fatty acids required for good health and as an effective counter to the effects of Alzheimer's.

When choosing an Omega 3 supplement you should chose the most concentrated and pure supplement available. Most fish oil supplements are manufactured using a process called micro distillation or stripping which removes pollutants such as mercury and results in a concentrated and pure product.

Discuss with or inform your doctor or physician that you are using a fish oil supplement.


Leave a reply