Omega-3 fat supplementation found to improve brain function
Posted on 2 July 2008
Previously on this site I have written about the potential benefits that so-called omega-3 fats have regarding brain function. These fats appear to have anti-depressant potential, for instance, but also seem to have the capacity to help maintain basic brain function too. There is some research, for instance, which has linked higher levels of omega-3 fats in the diet or body with reduced risk of dementia.
Such studies are
Published July 2, 2008 . Filed under: Brain and Behaviour, Nutrients and Supplements, Specific conditions
Seems my granny was right when she told us as children that eating fish was good for our brains. When I was studying for exams a few years ago, menopausal and in my fifties at the time, I noticed a definite improvement in my ability to concentrate and retain information when I started taking fish oils. Some guidelines would be useful on dosage of Omega-3 supplements. For instance, larger amounts of flaxseed oil seem to be needed relative to more concentrated fish oil, judging by recommended doses given on supplement labels. Also, how does it translate in food terms? Three servings of oily fish a week is often quoted, or a daily handful of omega-3 seeds, like flax or hemp. Is that enough to help avoid Alzheimer’s and arthitis – the scourges of old age? I’d also be interested to know about any research into deficiencies of certain vitamins and minerals in Alzheimer’s. Prevention being better than cure, and all that.
July 5, 2008 @ 10:42 am
I think it is important to say that just eating fish oil along with the vast amount of processed vegetable oils and margerines in the supermarket is not enough as these oils compete with the fish oil.People need to stop eating all other oils except virgin olive oil and seeds, as well as all fried foods and dressings containing these oils which are EVERYWHERE in processed foods.
July 6, 2008 @ 11:07 pm
Also great care must be taken to ensure the fish oil is fresh and refrigerated. Rancid fish oil is carcinogenic. It needs vitamin E to preseve it. It must not see the light. It must also be cleaned up. Nutri have a good one.
July 6, 2008 @ 11:10 pm
Is coconut oil better for cooking with than olive oil? I read that the chain of fatty acids in olive oil is broken down when heated making it not so healthy.
Tiggy.
July 6, 2008 @ 11:48 pm
There are some great studies on the benefits of Omega 3s and children in a BBC Series called The Human Mind
November 14, 2008 @ 8:21 pm