Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative pathology that causes cognitive and behavioral impairment, being the most prevalent form of dementia in the elderly population. The etiology of AD is not yet fully understood, but it is believed that the interaction of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to its development.
Recent studies have investigated the potential of omega 3, a polyunsaturated fatty acid found in fish and vegetable oils, as a protective factor against AD. Omega 3, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is an essential component of neural cell membranes and plays a crucial role in cognitive function.
Epidemiological research has suggested that regular omega-3 consumption is associated with a lower risk of developing AD and slower cognitive decline in individuals already diagnosed. The mechanisms by which omega 3 exerts its protective effects are still being investigated, but it is believed that it can modulate inflammation, oxidative stress and synaptic plasticity, processes that play an important role in neurodegeneration.
However, the results of randomized clinical trials with omega-3 supplementation in AD patients have been inconsistent. Some studies have shown modest benefits in cognitive function, while others have found no significant effects. These discrepancies can be attributed to differences in study design, dose and duration of supplementation, as well as heterogeneity of the patients included.
Despite the uncertainties, omega 3 remains a promising area of research in the prevention and treatment of AD. Future studies with larger samples, optimized doses and long-term follow-up are needed to clarify the role of omega 3 in AD and determine whether supplementation can be an effective strategy to prevent or delay the cognitive decline associated with this devastating disease (SILVEIRA; RODRIGUES, 2022).
Refereencia:
SILVEIRA, Francis Moreira da; RODRIGUES, Fabiano de Abreu Agrela. Omega 3: adjuvant in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. In: SILVA NETO, Benedito Rodrigues da (org.). Medicine as a link between science and practice. Ponta Grossa – PR: Atena Editora, 2022.p. 158-166.
