Taking This Supplement May Benefit Those With A Genetic Predisposition To Alzheimer’s Disease – New Study Reveals

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Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the brain. It results in the deterioration of brain cells, leading to a decline in cognitive function and potentially causing neurological disorders, which gradually decrease cognitive abilities and independence in carrying out daily activities, ultimately leading to dementia. AD is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by a progressive and irreversible deterioration of cognitive function (De-Paula et al., 2012).

The disease is multifactorial and arises from genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the known risk factors for AD include advancing age, genetic predisposition, history of head injuries, vascular diseases, certain infections, and environmental influences. These risk factors can influence the onset and progression of the disease, highlighting the complex interplay of various factors in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (Breijyeh & Karaman, 2020).

The World Health Organization has estimated that out of the 55 million people worldwide who are currently living with dementia, as high as 60% to 70% of those are believed to have AD. This number is projected to increase by 2030 to around 78 million and from 2050 to around 139 million (Shin, 2022). 

New Study Shows Omega-3s Benefit

Omega-3 fatty acids offer numerous potential benefits, one of the most well-known being their positive impact on cardiovascular health. One significant advantage is their ability to lower triglyceride levels in the body. Elevated triglyceride levels, known as hypertriglyceridemia, can increase the risk of atherosclerosis, which in turn raises the risk of heart disease and stroke (Khan et al., 2021).

There often needs to be more clarity about the difference between fish oil and omega-3. The critical distinction is that omega-3 is a nutrient, while fish oil is just one nutrient source.

Omega-3 refers to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which are essential for the body and can be found in certain foods. There are three primary omega-3 fatty acids: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ALA is present in plant-based foods such as walnuts, flaxseeds, soybeans, and canola oils. At the same time, EPA and DHA are primarily found in animal products, fish, and seafood.

Since our bodies cannot produce ALA, including it in our diet is crucial. While some ALA is converted into EPA and DHA when consumed, the conversion rate is low, around 5-8% (Burns-Whitmore et al., 2019). Therefore, it is also beneficial to consume direct sources of EPA and DHA to increase omega-3 levels.

However, suppose you do not regularly consume fish and seafood. In that case, fish oil supplements can be a convenient and effective way to elevate your omega-3 levels, relieving you from the stress of strict dietary requirements.

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Studies Link Omega-3’s Effect on Dementia/Alzheimer’s Prevention. 

There have been more than a dozen epidemiological studies (Cole et al., 2009) that have shown a lower intake of omega-3 fatty acids or fish consumption is linked with a higher risk for age-related cognitive decline or dementia, such as AD. Increased dietary consumption of (DHA) appears protective for AD and other dementia in multiple studies. DHA is also protective against several risk factors for dementia, including head trauma, diabetes, and cardioid, a type of omega-3 fatty acid that has been shown to have protective results against AD (Heath & Wood, 2021). 

Three separate smaller trial studies, one in Japan (Kotani et al., 2006), one in Sweden (Freund-Levi et al., 2006) and one in Taiwan (Chiu et al., 2008) indicated that DHA or fish oil might help stabilize patients. Their research suggests that DHA may have some benefits, mainly when used as an early treatment or combined with an antioxidant. However, its effectiveness may be limited for people already diagnosed with AD. While these trials are early reports, they offer promising insights into the potential advantages of DHA or fish oil in AD (Cole et al., 2009).

Consuming more fish in our diet is a great way to be proactive and gain brain health benefits from these healthy fats called omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are crucial for brain development and may help maintain memory and cognition as we age. Furthermore, human autopsy studies have reported 30%–50% lower DHA levels in the hippocampus of AD patients compared with controls (Prasad et al., 1998) (Lukiw, 2005). Moreover, fish contains vitamin D and selenium—2, potentially neuroprotective nutrients that may add to the benefit (Samieri et al., 2017a). Studies have shown that people who eat more fish or have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood may have a lower risk of dementia and slower cognitive decline (Barberger-Gateau, 2002) (Lopez et al., 2011). However, not all studies have found consistent results, especially regarding cognitive decline (Huang, 2010). Several researchers have suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may be particularly beneficial for episodic memory and essential for remembering specific events. It’s also possible that the effects of omega-3 fatty acids may vary depending on a person’s genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease (Huang, 2010). To better understand these relationships, researchers combined data from several extensive studies of older adults to investigate the impact of fish intake on overall cognition and episodic memory. They also examined how fish intake might interact with specific genetic factors related to Alzheimer’s disease (Samieri et al., 2017b) with desirable outcomes.

Read More: A Higher Dose of This Important Nutrient Each Day Keeps Dementia At Bay

The Link Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Selenium

The essential trace, selenium, plays a significant role in numerous physiological functions (Oliveira et al., 2017). As a potent antioxidant, it helps protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals (Rayman, 2012). In addition, selenium exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. It also has neuroprotective effects, potentially benefiting brain health and cognitive function (Oliveira et al., 2017). A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis done by (Pereira et al., 2022b) has shown that certain antioxidant nutrients, including selenium, may relieve symptoms of AD. Selenium, as a trace element, has been investigated for its possible benefits in neurodegenerative diseases and has been considered a potential preventive agent for the development and progression of AD. Systematically chosen studies have indicated that supplementing with selenium could be a promising approach for easing some of the symptoms associated with AD.

The Link Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Low Serum Vitamin D3

A research study by (Littlejohns et al., 2014) has demonstrated that vitamin D plays a significant role in clearing amyloid beta (Aβ) aggregates, which are the breakdown products of a large protein known as the amyloid precursor protein. These aggregates are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. It is also well-documented that low levels of serum vitamin D are affiliated with a higher risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, a comprehensive meta-analysis has further reinforced this association, revealing a notably increased risk of both all-cause dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (Chai et al., 2019).

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Preventative and Supportive Evidence-based Supplements

1. Omega 3 Fish Oil

Molecularly distilled, pharmaceutical-grade, pure fish oil sourced exclusively from wild-caught anchovies and sardines. Our high-potency Wild Omega contains EPA 660 mg of EPA and DHA 330 mg of DHA per serving, providing optimal support for cognitive function and inflammation reduction. Our fish oil is carefully processed to ensure maximum purity and potency, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain overall health and well-being.

Buy: New Roots Herbal Wild Omega-3 EPA 660 mg DHA 330 mg

2. Selenium

SelenoExcell is a unique supplement that provides 21 different forms of selenium, directly supporting the body’s metabolic system. Selenium is essential to maternal health and is crucial for various bodily functions.

Selenium is an essential trace mineral and functions as part of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. It is bonded to the essential sulfur amino acid, methionine, in a naturally occurring form as found in the diet. Selenium can help form selenoproteins, which have a role in regulating inflammation and immune responses.

Buy: Natural Factors SelenoExcell Selenium

3. Vitamin D

The micellized form of vitamin D is more water-soluble, which is suitable for people who have issues with fat digestion or have had their gall bladder removed. The emulsified vitamin D is more readily absorbed than other fat-soluble forms.

Buy: Naka Platinum Pro Emulsified Vitamin D 100ml

Conclusion

Individuals who possess two APOE e4 genes, a genetic factor, and are older (age 75 or older) have been found to have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease. Furthermore, individuals with a strong family history of these genes may exhibit disease symptoms earlier.  

Several studies have provided compelling evidence suggesting that incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA-rich fish oil supplements, into one’s diet can protect against Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Notably, a diet higher in DHA has been shown to offer significant protection against various risk factors for dementia. Research indicates that individuals who consume higher amounts of fish or have elevated levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their bloodstream may experience a lower risk factor of dementia and a slower rate of cognitive decline. Additionally, the essential trace element selenium, known for its potent antioxidant properties, has been found to safeguard cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Furthermore, there exists well-documented evidence linking low levels of serum vitamin D to an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Before making any changes to your diet or adding any supplements to your daily routine, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider for guidance, proper dosing, and general direction.

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