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Read Summaries of Important Scientific Studies on Omega-3's
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Omega-3’s and Brain Health
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| Omega-3’s Help to Preserve Cognitive
Functioning |
In a study featured in Neurology, 1,613 subjects were
examined between the ages of 45 and 70, testing the correlation between Omega-3
consumption and the preservation of cognitive abilities. Mental functioning was
gauged on multiple measures by researchers (memory, psychomotor speed,
higher-level information processing and overall cognition), and participants
completed a food consumption questionnaire to record their eating patterns,
especially as their diets related to intake of fatty fish.
Consumption of long-chain polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish
was positively associated with a reduced risk of mental impairment, both on
measures of overall cognitive function and psychomotor speed. Researchers also
noted a significant correlation between higher consumption rates of cholesterol
(saturated fats) and an increased risk of impaired memory and cognitive
flexibility.
The researchers concluded that Omega-3’s may benefit cognitive performance due
to their anti-inflammatory properties. The researchers further speculate that
the diminished cognitive performance associated with lower intake of Omega-3’s
may be a predictor of Alzheimer’s Disease later in life.
“Dietary intake of fatty acids and fish in relation to cognitive performance at
middle age.” Neurology. 2004 Jan 27;62(2):275-80.
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| Eating Fish Lowers the Risk of Dementia |
French researchers conducted an extensive, seven-year study
to investigate correlations between consumption of fish (high in
polyunsaturated fatty acids) or meat (high in saturated fatty acids) and the
risk of developing dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease. Subjects, who were
aged at least 68 with no symptoms of dementia, recorded their consumption rates
of these items. Researchers collected data at two, five and seven years
following the start of the study.
Over the entire period in question, subjects who ate fish once per week or more
had dramatically lower incidences of cognitive decline. Researchers speculated
that in addition to providing vascular protection, the essential fatty acids
(Omega-3’s) found in fish might be responsible for diminishing inflammation of
brain tissue. They further hypothesized that Omega-3’s may play an important
part in the development of the brain and the regeneration of nerve cells.
“Fish, meat, and risk of dementia: cohort study.” British Medical Journal,
2002; 325; 932-933. |
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| These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and
Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or
prevent any disease. |
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| IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ: The information provided in
this section of the web site is for informational purposes only and is not
intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care
professional or any information contained on or in any product label or
packaging. You should not use the information in this section of the web site
for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any
medication or other treatment. You should consult with a healthcare
professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program,
before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health
problem. Of course, you should never stop taking any medication without first
consulting your physician. |
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