Dementia that develops before age 65, often called early-onset dementia, is relatively rare but can profoundly disrupt cognitive function, independence, and daily life for both individuals and their families. Many cases appear to be influenced by lifestyle factors, yet diet has received little attention in this younger age group. To address this gap, researchers examined whether blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids in midlife are associated with the later development of early-onset dementia. Using data from the UK Biobank, the team studied more than 217,000 adults between ages 40 and 64 who di... dementia omega-3
Read moreThe Omega-3 Index measures omega-3 fatty acid concentrations in red blood cells. It provides a reliable assessment of long-term intake and is highly reflective of fatty acid composition in most tissues, with one notable exception – the brain. A recent study suggests that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein involved in learning and memory, is a more reliable measure of brain omega-3 concentrations than the Omega-3 Index. Researchers gave rats and mice different types and amounts of supplemental omega-3 fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EP... brain omega-3 bdnf
Read moreCellular DNA is subject to tens of thousands of injuries each day that arise from both endogenous sources, such as free radicals produced during normal metabolism, and exogenous sources, such as cytotoxic drugs, ionizing radiation, and cigarette smoke, among others. DNA damage induces genomic instability, a hallmark of aging (https://www.foundmyfitness.com/topics/hallmarks-of-aging). Evidence from a 2020 study suggests that omega-3 fatty acids protect against DNA damage. The study involved 140 healthy children and adolescents (aged 9 to 13 years). Researchers assessed the children's body meas... omega-3 dna damage
Read moreDepression – a mood disorder that affects 322 million people worldwide – is characterized by profound sadness, anxiety, and physical complaints. People who have depression often have higher levels of systemic inflammation (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-020-00874-7) (which can affect brain health) compared to those without depression. Findings from a new study suggest that omega-3 fatty acids reduce symptoms of depression through their anti-inflammatory effects on the brain. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are omega-3 fatty acids derived primarily from fish.... omega-3 depression il-6
Read moreCancer is a leading cause of death in the United States, but new therapies targeting diet and lifestyle may aid in fighting the disease. Emerging research suggests that modulating the kind of nutrients available to cancer cells may encourage or inhibit their growth (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5329766/). Findings of a recent study detail the effects of polyunsaturated fats on cancer growth in mice. Polyunsaturated fats are fatty acids that have more than one unsaturated carbon bond in the molecule, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They are present in fish, nuts, and se... cancer omega-3 ketogenic diet
Read moreNutritional status plays critical roles in fighting infections, influencing not only how well the body's immune system works but also how pathogens behave in the body. Findings from a new study suggest that omega-3 fatty acids improve clinical outcomes in critically ill patients with COVID-19. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) are essential nutrients. They participate in a wide range of physiological functions, including immune responses. Evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids stabilize cell membranes, regul... omega-3 covid-19
Read moreSarcopenia is an age-related progressive condition characterized by the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. It is one of the leading causes of functional decline and loss of independence in older adults. Contributing factors for sarcopenia include poor nutrition, low physical activity, and inflammation, among others. Findings from a recent meta-analysis suggest that omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial in preventing or treating sarcopenia. Omega-3 fatty acids participate in a wide range of physiological processes and are essential for human health. Some evidence demonstrates that omega-3... aging omega-3 muscle
Read moreAs the human body ages several changes occur, including the gradual erosion of the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, known as telomeres. A 2012 study suggests that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids can counteract telomere shortening and slow aging. Telomeres function as a protective buffer against DNA loss during replication and DNA damage caused by inflammation, reactive oxygen species, and other chemical compounds. Telomeres get shorter with age and telomere length is a biological marker for age. Previous research has demonstrated that many factors can affect the rate of telo... obesity aging omega-3 inflammation
Read moreCigarette smokers are known to have low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, the essential fats necessary for brain function. A 2014 study suggests that providing omega-3 fatty acids to regular cigarette smokers reduced daily smoking and tobacco cravings. Previous research has demonstrated that a deficiency of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) can contribute to psychological stress. Interestingly, the areas of the brain that process stress and drug cues have sizable overlap. Imbalanced levels of omega-3 fatty acids found in smokers can make them more ... omega-3
Read moreDepression is a mood disorder characterized by profound sadness, fatigue, altered sleep and appetite, as well as feelings of guilt or low self-worth. It is the most common mental health disorder worldwide, affecting as many as 322 million people. Many people with depression do not respond to antidepressant therapies. A new study suggests that omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial in treating symptoms of depression. Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that are essential for human health. They play critical roles in the development and function of the nervous system. Evidence suggests tha... omega-3 supplements
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