Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Omega-3 Supplements – A Hope for Alzheimer Sufferers

In January of 2014, the Journal of the American Academy of Neurology published the results of a study suggesting that higher omega-3 fatty acid levels improve brain health. The study was carried out on over 1,111 women. In these women, the levels of omega-3 fatty acids in red blood cells were examined. This study was called the Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study. The analysis was done after eight years, when these women were an average age of 78. Their brain volume was measured. It was observed that women with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids had larger brain volumes.

Another study with grants from the Dementia Association, the Swedish Alzheimer’s Association, the Capio Research Foundation among others, was carried out on 18 patients with mild Alzheimer's disease. As per Freund-Levi's group, the patients who were given omega-3 supplements showed higher levels of two major forms of omega-3 fatty acids – DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) and EHA (Eicosapentaenoic acid). The researchers consider this as a means of treating Alzheimer's disease.Apart from brain related problems, Omega-3 supplements are found useful in many ways. Its daily intake can do the following:
  • Improve bone health. Omega-3 supplements along with calcium, vitamin-D and magnesium are vital constituents in maintaining bone mineral density.
  • Reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis. Its regular intake cuts the inflammatory process and sends relief to people suffering from joint pain.
  • Preserve lean muscle. Studies show that supplementing the diet with omega-3 helps in preventing muscle loss in cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy. Omega-3 supplements help in maintaining muscle mass.
  • Trim down the signs of aging. Intake of Omega-3 is found effective in reducing wrinkle formation and prevent thinning of skin. It diminishes the UV induced damage and retains youthful appearance.

Consult a doctor to add the right amount of omega-3 in your diet. Fish like salmon, tuna and herring are considered to be the best source of this nutrient. For vegetarians and people on the move, omega-3 supplements are the best bet. One can buy omega 3 fish oil supplements online and avail huge discounts.

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