Can those who are highly susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease benefit from fish oil?
The health benefits of fish oils have been the subject of numerous claims over the years. According to a new study, some people may be able to lower their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease by taking fish oil supplements later in life. Fish oil supplements lowered the degeneration of brain nerve cells in older adults with a gene linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a small study. Larger clinical trials are recommended by experts to look into the advantages of omega-3 supplements for people who are at high risk of Alzheimer’s.
Since oily fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs), it should be included in a healthy diet. Fish oil supplements, which are frequently promoted as having some health benefits, such as Heart and cardiovascular benefits; protecting eye health; healthy fetal development; memory, and other mental health benefits, are an option for those whose diet does not include oily fish. However, some of the health benefits of fish oils are debatable, and for certain individuals, using supplements may pose health risks.
A recent small study has revealed that older individuals with the APOEε4 gene, which raises the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, may benefit from taking fish oil supplements. According to the research, which was published in JAMA Network OpenTrusted Source, giving fish oil to individuals with the gene resulted in less breakdown of nerve cells; however, those without the gene did not significantly benefit from the treatment.
The possibility of individualized dietary interventions based on genetic predisposition is highlighted by this study. Although the results are encouraging, a more thorough investigation is required to fully comprehend the implications and provide firm guidelines. It’s also critical to keep researching additional dietary and lifestyle choices that may support cognitive health in senior citizens. “.
The Alzheimer’s Association states that a person’s risk of Alzheimer’s disease may be raised by some factors. These include genetics and family history; age; smoking; an unhealthy diet and/or being overweight; and a lack of exercise. Alzheimer’s disease has been linked to several genes, the most well-known of which is the APOE gene. A particular variation of this, APOEε4, raises the likelihood of Alzheimer’s disease, especially in people who receive APOEε4 from both parents.
Three soft gel fish oil capsules per day:
102 participants 75 years of age and older with comparatively low omega-3 fatty acid levels were included in the study. All of the participants had some degree of white matter lesions (common changes in the nerve cells of the brain in older people), but overall health was good, with no dementia (as determined by MRI scans at the beginning and the mini-mental state examination). Every day, the participants received three soft gel capsules containing 1 point 65 grams of omega-3 from the researchers. Three soft gels with only soybean oil were given to the control group; these gels had the same texture, taste, and smell as the omega-3 capsules.
Who was getting which treatment was a secret to both the participants and the researchers? Using MRI scans, the researchers tracked the progression of white matter lesions in each participant throughout the three-year trial. They also evaluated cognitive function.
Positive effects only in people with the APOEε4 gene:
There were no serious side effects from the treatment, and all participants tolerated it well. The investigators observed no statistically significant variation in the overall group’s results between the omega-3 treatment and placebo groups. Nonetheless, a notable distinction existed in the advancement of white matter lesions between the cohorts for individuals harboring the APOEε4 gene.
In comparison to individuals in the placebo group, those with the APOEε4 allele in the omega-3 group exhibited noticeably less breakdown of nerve cells. According to Allder, “Omega-3] PUFAs may have a different metabolic or inflammatory response compared to non-carriers, and carriers of the APOEε4 gene may have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.” This is how the fish oils may have this effect. This gene is linked to oxidative stress and increased brain inflammation, both of which [Omega-3] PUFAs are known to reduce. “.
Fish oil may be a potential preventive treatment for some
The study’s authors suggest that while fish oil supplements may not be recommended for all older people, they may help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in those who carry the APOEε4 allele. They do, however, stress that additional clinical trials are required to confirm their findings because this was a small study.
Our findings showed that over three years, there was not a statistically significant difference between the placebo and the group that took fish oil,” said Lynne Shinto, ND, MPH, senior co-author of the study and professor of neurology at OHSU School of Medicine, in a news release. She said, “I wouldn’t say you need to take fish oil to prevent dementia, but I don’t think it would be harmful.
Fish oils are generally safe, but people should only take them under medical advice, according to Allder and Molly Rapozo, RDN, registered dietician nutritionist and senior nutrition and health educator at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, CA. “I always advise clients to consult with their medical team before adding supplements because contraindications are a serious concern. Although generally safe, there are effects based on age and dosage, particularly in individuals who have two copies of the APOE4 gene, Rapozo informed MNT. Increasing the amount of omega-3 in your diet is recommended, she continued, saying that you should “in the meantime, up your intake of small cold-water fish which are good sources of omega 3 fats.”.
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