A recent study has found that taking fish oil supplements in later life could help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s in some individuals. The study showed that in older people with a gene that increases Alzheimer’s risk, fish oil supplements reduced the breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. Experts are suggesting that larger clinical trials should investigate the benefits of omega-3 supplements for those at high risk of Alzheimer’s. While fish oils are known to have various health benefits, some claims are disputed, and taking supplements may be associated with health risks in some people.
Alzheimer’s disease is influenced by various factors, including age, smoking, an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and genetics. The APOE gene, specifically the APOEε4 version, has been identified as increasing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, particularly in individuals who inherit this gene from both parents. The study focused on 102 individuals aged 75 and over with low levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Those with the APOEε4 gene who were given fish oil supplements showed a reduction in nerve cell breakdown compared to those who were given a placebo. This personalized nutritional intervention based on genetic predisposition shows promising results, but further research is needed to confirm and establish guidelines.
The study involved giving half of the participants omega-3 supplements while the other half received a placebo. Participants were assessed for cognitive function and the development of white matter lesions throughout the 3-year trial. While the overall results did not show a significant difference between the two groups, individuals with the APOEε4 gene in the omega-3 group experienced less nerve cell breakdown. The exact mechanism through which fish oils have this effect is not completely understood but may involve reducing brain inflammation and oxidative stress.
The authors of the study do not recommend fish oil supplements for all older individuals but suggest that they may help reduce Alzheimer’s risk in those with the APOEε4 gene. They emphasize the need for further clinical trials to validate these findings. While fish oils are generally safe, caution should be exercised, especially for those with certain genetic predispositions. Increasing omega-3 intake through diet, particularly from small cold-water fish, is a preferable option. Larger-scale trials with different dosages may provide more insights into the potential benefits of omega-3 supplementation on cognitive function and brain health.
Both experts in the field stress the importance of conducting more studies to confirm the findings and determine the generalizability of the results. Larger and more diverse sample sizes are needed to assess the long-term effects of omega-3 supplements on cognitive function and brain health. Optimal dosages and formulations of fish oil supplements should also be explored in future research. Increasing the dosage of omega-3 supplements beyond what was used in the study may lead to more significant effects, especially for conditions associated with chronic inflammation. Further research is essential to establish definitive guidelines on the use of fish oil supplements for Alzheimer’s prevention.
