The Benefits of Fish Oil for sufferers of Alzheimer's :
Fish Oils
Recent studies have shown that an omega-3 fatty acid (called DHA), found in relatively high concentrations in cold-water fish, dramatically slowed the progression of Alzheimer's disease in mice and even delayed the onset where there was a genetic predisposition to the disease. Specifically, there was a significant reduction in the harmful sticky brain plaques that are a hallmark of Alzheimer's.
This is a particularly favourable development in light of the fact that this therapy would be widely available to sufferers at a relatively low cost. For example, from food sources such as fish, almonds, walnuts and soy, or in fish-oil supplements. In addition, the omega-3 fatty acid is already recommended by cardiologists for heart health, based on scores of previous studies, and expounded by other health professionals for ailments such as arthritis and depression. Therefore, there is already in place a recognisable safety profile that the average person will be aware of. The lack of controversy, often linked with new 'drugs' on the market, will no doubt provide peace of mind to those experimenting with alternative remedies. This is particularly so in relation to fears of unknown side-effects.
Omega-3 fatty acids, and their relative Omega-6 fatty acids, are essential for human health in any event. For example, the former are vital for proper brain function, as well as eye health and other body processes. It is crucial to balance the ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fats in your daily diet. The ideal ratio should be 1:1, though the average person could have a ratio of around 20:1 to 50:1! The easiest way to balance your ratio is to consume more omega-3 fats from good sources while reducing your intake of omega-6 fats (foods containing corn, soy, canola, safflower and sunflower oils). And again, the best omega-3 fats are those found in fish.
Whilst there is no current cure for Alzheimer's, the most common form of mental decline in older adults, fish oils' reputation as "brain food" is being reinforced. The disease generally targets such areas as memory, intelligence, language, judgement and behaviour. However, it has been evidenced that incidences of the disease are far lower in populations that eat a lot of fish. Therefore, whilst there is no definitive evidence as yet that fish oils prevent Alzheimer's, it is certainly something to be excited about. This is particularly so considering that the number of people with Alzheimer's is expected to triple over the next 30 to 40 years.
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