by totalhealth editors
Over the past decade a wide body of
research has established essential
fatty acids (EFA) supplementation,
particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and
arachidonic acid (AA) as an imperative to
establishing and maintaining optimal health
throughout our lifetime. Adequate levels of
essential fatty acids are a must in pregnancy
and early human development. DHA is a key
component of healthy heart tissue, is critical
to the brain and is the major structural and
functional EFA in the central nervous system.
Low levels of DHA are associated with
impaired concentration, learning ability,
memory and visual function, as well as
depression, hostility and aggression.
Research studies clearly show DHA supplementation
can play an important role in
avoiding and confronting the cause of
memory loss and cognitive decline associated
with our aging population.
Indication of the value of DHA supplementation
to the health of the aging brain
overwhelmingly suggests it should be considered
as an imperative to the nutritional
health of any individual over the age of 50.
One study in particular considered the role of
essential fatty acids supplementation of the
neuronal membrane in Alzheimer’s disease
(AD) sufferers. In a study of 100 AD patients,
60 were given a fatty acid compound in a 1:4
ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Forty patients were the placebo control
group on the four-week double-blind study.
Results showed that treated patients seemed
to improve in the following aspects: they
were better able to remember their way
around the house, they were more cooperative,
they were in better mood, their appetite
improved and they were more organized. In
addition, their short- and long-term memory
were improved, they complained less about
sleep disturbances and showed longer periods
of alertness during the day. Fewer treated
patients reported hallucinations and they
spoke more clearly.
We also know that diets rich in omega-3
fatty acids, especially EFA and DHA, are
important in lowering the risk of cardiovascular
disease. They help keep the arteries
clear and platelets less sticky by helping to
lower total blood cholesterol, triglyceride
levels and blood pressure levels. They are also
important in reducing the risk of arrhythmia
and heart attacks in high-risk populations.
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