We investigated the potential benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in fighting Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a novel intranasal administration method. By using a specially formulated nanoemulsion that protects DHA from oxidation, we aimed to enhance its delivery to the brain. In our study, we administered this DHA-rich nanoemulsion to J20 mice, a well-known transgenic model for AD.
The results were promising. After treatment, the mice showed notable improvements in their well-being and memory performance, which we measured through their ability to navigate spatial tasks. Additionally, we observed a significant reduction in harmful amyloid deposits, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation within their brain tissues. This positive outcome could potentially stem from DHA's ability to affect specific processes in the brain, such as the inactivation of GSK3β, a kinase associated with AD.
Overall, our findings suggest that intranasal DHA treatment not only has therapeutic effects but may also modify the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Considering that DHA has already demonstrated safety in humans, we believe there is a strong case for conducting clinical trials to explore this approach further for Alzheimer's patients.
Read More
8
Eicosapentaenoic Acid aids Alzheimer's treatment
N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids attenuate amyloid-beta-induced toxicity in AD transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans via promotion of proteasomal activity and activation of PPAR-gamma.
We investigated how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, affects the toxicity linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Using a model of transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans, we observed that treating these worms with EPA led to a decrease in the harmful effects caused by beta-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation, a key contributor to cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s.
Notably, we found that EPA not only reduced the signs of paralysis associated with Aβ but also lowered the production of reactive oxygen species, which are harmful compounds that can damage cells. Additionally, our findings suggested that EPA restored proteasomal activity, helping clear the Aβ build-up.
We further explored the role of PPAR-gamma, a receptor that appears to be crucial for EPA's protective effects. When we used an inhibitor to block PPAR-gamma, the positive outcomes of EPA treatment were no longer evident. This suggests that EPA’s beneficial effects in fighting Aβ-induced toxicity are linked to its ability to activate PPAR-gamma.
Overall, our research underscores the potential of eicosapentaenoic acid as a promising therapeutic option for mitigating Alzheimer's symptoms by enhancing cellular functions.
Read More
8
EPA disrupts Aβ fibrils
Destabilization of Aβ fibrils by omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: a molecular dynamics study.
We explored the potential of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, in destabilizing the toxic aggregates of the Aβ protein that form plaques in Alzheimer's disease. The study utilized advanced molecular dynamics simulations to assess how EPA interacts with these fibrils over time.
Throughout the analysis, we observed that EPA not only binds to the Aβ fibrils but also disrupts their structure. As a result, we noted increased root mean square deviation, radius of gyration, and surface area while the number of hydrogen bonds and β-sheet content decreased. This indicates that EPA interferes with the fibrils' stability, potentially paving the way for therapeutic applications in Alzheimer’s treatment.
Importantly, the interactions demonstrated that the polar head of EPA aligns with positively charged residues in the fibril, showcasing a clear mechanism behind its destabilizing effects. The hydrophobic tail of EPA competes with the natural hydrophobic interactions within the fibrils, ultimately leading to their destabilization. Overall, our findings suggest that EPA could be a promising candidate for further drug development aimed at combating Alzheimer’s disease.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Vitality enhancement
Great omega for the heart! Omega-3 is a beneficial supplement for all ages but especially for children and the elderly. It improves brain function and reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease. I have taken it for a long time and find it both necessary and effective; the improvements are apparent at both physical and emotional levels. One package suffices for a full course. Omega-3 supports the cardiovascular system, and these capsules are easy to swallow. After taking it, I feel invigorated. My biochemical blood tests have significantly improved.
Read More
7.5
Improved mental health
5 people found this helpful
Quality manufacturer! I take this Omega for its optimal EPA and DHA content. DHA is a powerful anti-age component; its deficiency in the brain decreases mental performance and raises the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, EPA/DHA are essential for women's health, helping to balance hormones. As a bonus, my hair has become healthier, hair loss decreased, and my skin more hydrated. This Omega brand is recommended by the well-known blogger E. Kornilova, whose opinion I trust completely, so I exclusively take Omega from this brand.
Read More
7.5
Mood improvement
A gorgeous omega! This omega features an excellent composition with high EPA and DHA values. When selecting an omega, it is vital to focus on the dosage of EPA and DHA, as many brands claim high levels but offer these key elements in small quantities, meaning you might overpay for fillers. This preparation is in order! Moreover, fish oil with significant EPA and DHA may alleviate symptoms of depression. DHA intake in later life may enhance brain function and diminish the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
We explored how dietary eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), in combination with lysophosphatidylcholine and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), might influence retinal function in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our focus was on 5XFAD mice, a commonly used model for studying AD, to see if enriching retinal DHA levels could help alleviate visual impairments associated with the disease.
Our findings revealed that the 5XFAD mice had notably lower levels of retinal DHA compared to their healthy counterparts. Upon feeding them a diet rich in the lysophosphatidylcholine form of DHA and EPA, we observed a rapid normalization of DHA levels and a substantial increase in retinal EPA. In contrast, feeding them traditional forms of these fatty acids produced only modest improvements.
After two months on the special diet, we recorded significant enhancements in retinal function measured through electroretinography, particularly in a-wave and b-wave responses. Additionally, the levels of retinal amyloid beta, a marker associated with AD, were reduced by about 50% with the dietary intervention, compared to a mere 17% reduction with the standard formulation.
Overall, our study suggests that boosting DHA and EPA levels in the retina through a unique dietary method may improve vision-related issues in Alzheimer’s disease, highlighting the potential of these nutrients in supporting retinal health as part of a broader treatment strategy.
Read More
9
Eicosapentaenoic Acid shows promise
Efficacy and acceptability of anti-inflammatory eicosapentaenoic acid for cognitive function in Alzheimer's dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials with omega-3 fatty acids and FDA-approved pharmacotherapy.
We conducted a comprehensive analysis of how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, affects cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Our research included 52 randomized controlled trials involving over 21,000 participants, making this one of the most extensive evaluations in this field.
The goal was to determine whether high doses of EPA could provide significant improvement in cognitive abilities and how this treatment compares to other FDA-approved medications. After examining the data, we found that long-term use of EPA at doses between 1500 and 2000 mg per day, especially when enhanced with antioxidants, had the greatest potential for improving cognitive function in people with AD.
In terms of acceptability and safety, we observed that EPA was comparable to placebo, meaning that the discontinuation rates and side effects were similar. These insights reinforce the notion that anti-inflammatory properties of EPA could play a significant role in managing cognitive decline among Alzheimer’s patients.
Looking ahead, we believe that future research should investigate different dosages of EPA, focusing on how it might help individuals with varying levels of inflammation and psychiatric symptoms.
Read More
9
DHA's role in Alzheimer's management
Cosupplementation with DHA and medium-chain triglycerides ameliorates NAFLD and reduces amyloid-β accumulation by modulating hepatic lipid metabolism in APP/PS1 mice.
We aimed to uncover how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) might affect Alzheimer's disease, particularly in relation to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Our study involved 40 three-month-old male APP/PS1 mice, which are commonly used in Alzheimer's research, divided into four groups. These groups ate different diets—one with DHA, one with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), one with both, and one control—as we observed their impacts on liver health and amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulations over eight months.
Our findings showed that mice with Alzheimer's displayed both NAFLD and increased levels of Aβ in their brains. Interestingly, the combination of DHA and MCTs led to lower blood and liver lipids. It also alleviated fat buildup in the liver and reduced Aβ levels in both the brain and serum. Moreover, it effectively raised the levels of proteins linked to Aβ clearance while altering the expression of key enzymes related to liver lipid metabolism.
In essence, our research suggests that DHA, particularly when paired with MCTs, may offer protective benefits against the progression of NAFLD and simultaneously reduce Aβ accumulation. This could indicate a more significant response to metabolic changes in APP/PS1 mice compared to normal mice. Our study adds to the understanding of DHA's potential role in managing Alzheimer's disease through its effects on liver metabolism and Aβ processing.
Read More
9
DHA shows promise in Alzheimer's
Nose-to-brain delivery of DHA-loaded nanoemulsions: A promising approach against Alzheimer's disease.
We investigated the potential benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in fighting Alzheimer's disease (AD) through a novel intranasal administration method. By using a specially formulated nanoemulsion that protects DHA from oxidation, we aimed to enhance its delivery to the brain. In our study, we administered this DHA-rich nanoemulsion to J20 mice, a well-known transgenic model for AD.
The results were promising. After treatment, the mice showed notable improvements in their well-being and memory performance, which we measured through their ability to navigate spatial tasks. Additionally, we observed a significant reduction in harmful amyloid deposits, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation within their brain tissues. This positive outcome could potentially stem from DHA's ability to affect specific processes in the brain, such as the inactivation of GSK3β, a kinase associated with AD.
Overall, our findings suggest that intranasal DHA treatment not only has therapeutic effects but may also modify the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Considering that DHA has already demonstrated safety in humans, we believe there is a strong case for conducting clinical trials to explore this approach further for Alzheimer's patients.
Read More
9
DHA shows potential in AD treatment
Up-regulation of myelin-associated glycoprotein is associated with the ameliorating effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on Alzheimer's disease progression in APP-PS1 transgenic mice.
We examined how docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, could influence Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression. To do this, we crossed special mice known for their ability to produce higher levels of omega-3s with another group genetically predisposed to develop AD. The goal was to see if increased DHA in their brains would improve their cognition and reduce harmful protein levels associated with AD.
Our findings were compelling. Mice with elevated DHA levels showed fewer cognitive deficits and lower levels of amyloid-beta, the protein linked to AD, compared to those that lacked this enhancement. We also found that this improvement was associated with higher expression of myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) in key brain areas involved in learning and memory. This suggests a potential mechanism through which DHA exerts its protective effects.
Additionally, our analysis indicated that the protective properties of DHA were compromised when MAG expression was inhibited. This reinforces the idea that up-regulation of MAG is crucial for DHA’s beneficial effects against AD. Overall, our research highlights DHA as a promising avenue for Alzheimer's treatment due to its ability to enhance MAG expression and support cognitive function.
Great omega for the heart! Omega-3 is a beneficial supplement for all ages but especially for children and the elderly. It improves brain function and reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease. I have taken it for a long time and find it both necessary and effective; the improvements are apparent at both physical and emotional levels. One package suffices for a full course. Omega-3 supports the cardiovascular system, and these capsules are easy to swallow. After taking it, I feel invigorated. My biochemical blood tests have significantly improved.
Read More
7.5
Improved mental health
5 people found this helpful
Quality manufacturer! I take this Omega for its optimal EPA and DHA content. DHA is a powerful anti-age component; its deficiency in the brain decreases mental performance and raises the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, EPA/DHA are essential for women's health, helping to balance hormones. As a bonus, my hair has become healthier, hair loss decreased, and my skin more hydrated. This Omega brand is recommended by the well-known blogger E. Kornilova, whose opinion I trust completely, so I exclusively take Omega from this brand.
Read More
7.5
Mood improvement
A gorgeous omega! This omega features an excellent composition with high EPA and DHA values. When selecting an omega, it is vital to focus on the dosage of EPA and DHA, as many brands claim high levels but offer these key elements in small quantities, meaning you might overpay for fillers. This preparation is in order! Moreover, fish oil with significant EPA and DHA may alleviate symptoms of depression. DHA intake in later life may enhance brain function and diminish the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Read More
6
Cognitive function
Omega-3 performs various functions in the body. They are crucial as components of phospholipids - fats that form cell membranes. Studies correlate omega-3 consumption with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Omega-3 fatty acids are parts of nerve cell membranes, significant for nerve impulse transmission, brain function, and reflexes. They may also help normalise fat metabolism and blood pressure.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects memory and cognitive function. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for the decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease typically begins with mild memory loss, particularly trouble remembering recent events or conversations, and can progress to more severe symptoms such as confusion, difficulty speaking, and ultimately, the inability to carry out simple tasks. The exact cause of Alzheimer's is not fully understood, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that lead to the degeneration of brain cells.
As the disease progresses, individuals may experience changes in mood and behavior, which can create challenges for caregivers and loved ones. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's, certain medications and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Researchers are actively working on finding more effective treatments and exploring ways to prevent or slow the onset of the disease. Understanding Alzheimer's is crucial for early detection and intervention, which can help maintain independence for as long as possible and enhance the overall well-being of those affected.
Omega-3 fish oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the fatty tissues of fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. The most significant types of omega-3s found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are known for their numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and promoting brain function.
Incorporating omega-3 fish oil into your diet can be beneficial if you don’t consume enough fish regularly. Many health experts recommend oily fish as a part of a balanced diet due to their high omega-3 content. For those who find it difficult to include fish in their meals, fish oil supplements can offer a convenient alternative, providing the same essential fatty acids in concentrated form. However, it’s essential to choose high-quality supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency to avoid contaminants such as heavy metals or other toxins that can impact health.
While the connection between omega-3 fish oil and Alzheimer’s disease continues to be a subject of research, current evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, may play a role in supporting brain health. Some studies indicate that these essential fatty acids could help reduce inflammation and support cognitive function, which are both critical factors in the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. However, it’s important to note that the research is not definitive, and there is no clear consensus in the medical community regarding the effectiveness of omega-3 supplements as a treatment or preventive measure for Alzheimer’s.
If you're considering incorporating omega-3 fish oil into your routine, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you assess your dietary needs and provide guidance on proper dosages and product selection. In the meantime, focusing on a balanced diet rich in fish, nuts, and seeds may provide some benefits for brain health and overall wellness. Remember, while omega-3s can be part of a healthy lifestyle, they should not be viewed as a standalone remedy for Alzheimer’s disease.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from Omega-3 supplements, particularly in relation to Alzheimer's support, varies among individuals. Some users suggest that positive changes are noticeable relatively quickly; for instance, one reviewer mentions feeling invigorated and observing significant improvements in biochemical blood tests after long-term use, implying that consistent consumption may lead to benefits over time Read Review. Another reviewer highlights the importance of EPA and DHA, which can enhance brain function and potentially diminish the risk of Alzheimer's disease, though they do not specify an exact timeframe for these effects Read Review.
Ultimately, while some users report feeling improvements quickly, others may not specify how long it took for them to notice the benefits. The general consensus seems to indicate that consistent intake over an extended period could be beneficial, particularly in enhancing mental performance and reducing Alzheimer’s risk Read Review. It is essential to consider that individual experiences may vary significantly.
Research involving eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, offers intriguing insights into its potential effects on Alzheimer's disease (AD). Studies have demonstrated that EPA may help mitigate certain Alzheimer-related symptoms, although results vary across different genetic backgrounds and individual studies. For instance, a study focused on genetic variations found that EPA supplementation can increase brain EPA levels in individuals carrying the APOE ε3 allele but had a less significant impact on the ε4 carriers [1]. Another comprehensive review involving numerous studies indicated that approximately 58% of trials reported cognitive improvements from omega-3 supplements like EPA, though isolating its unique effects remains complex due to concurrent consumption of DHA and other supplementation factors [4].
Moreover, several animal studies confirm that EPA could potentially reduce toxic protein aggregates like amyloid-beta, which are associated with the progression of AD [15]. While some results are promising, it's critical to note that not all investigations found significant improvements attributable to EPA alone, stressing the need for further research to clarify its effectiveness and therapeutic roles in clinical settings [8]. With this in mind, EPA could be positioned as a supporting dietary intervention for Alzheimer's, particularly for individuals with specific genetic profiles or early signs of cognitive decline.
Users report a variety of positive improvements after incorporating Omega-3 supplements into their routine. Many have noted enhancements in both mental and physical health, such as improved brain function and emotional wellbeing. For example, one user observed significant improvements in their biochemical blood tests and described feeling invigorated after long-term use Read Review. Additionally, others have credited Omega-3 with a reduction in symptoms related to mental health, such as depression, and highlighted its role in supporting hormone balance, healthier hair, and improved skin hydration Read Review.
The consensus among reviewers suggests that regular intake of Omega-3, particularly high in EPA and DHA, not only contributes to heart health but may also play a crucial role in minimizing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia Read Review. These anecdotal experiences illustrate the multifaceted benefits of Omega-3, although as with any supplement, individual responses can vary widely.
The optimal dose for Omega-3 fish oil, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), for treating Alzheimer's disease is suggested to be between 1500 and 2000 mg per day. This conclusion is drawn from a comprehensive analysis that encompassed 52 randomized controlled trials, involving over 21,000 participants, indicating that high doses of EPA may improve cognitive abilities significantly when taken long-term, especially in conjunction with antioxidants [8]. Notably, the study indicates that the safety and acceptability of EPA were on par with placebo, which lends credence to its potential as an effective treatment option for managing cognitive decline [8].
However, it's important to note that while EPA might offer favorable outcomes, the overall benefits can be influenced by individual factors such as genetic predispositions and levels of inflammation [1]. Overall, further research is necessary to clarify the full impact of EPA and optimize its therapeutic use in Alzheimer's treatment [8].
9
Vitality enhancement
Great omega for the heart! Omega-3 is a beneficial supplement for all ages but especially for children and the elderly. It improves brain function and reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease. I have taken it for a long time and find it both necessary and effective; the improvements are apparent at both physical and emotional levels. One package suffices for a full course. Omega-3 supports the cardiovascular system, and these capsules are easy to swallow. After taking it, I feel invigorated. My biochemical blood tests have significantly improved.
7.5
Mood improvement
A gorgeous omega! This omega features an excellent composition with high EPA and DHA values. When selecting an omega, it is vital to focus on the dosage of EPA and DHA, as many brands claim high levels but offer these key elements in small quantities, meaning you might overpay for fillers. This preparation is in order! Moreover, fish oil with significant EPA and DHA may alleviate symptoms of depression. DHA intake in later life may enhance brain function and diminish the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
7.5
Improved mental health
5 people found this helpful
Quality manufacturer! I take this Omega for its optimal EPA and DHA content. DHA is a powerful anti-age component; its deficiency in the brain decreases mental performance and raises the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, EPA/DHA are essential for women's health, helping to balance hormones. As a bonus, my hair has become healthier, hair loss decreased, and my skin more hydrated. This Omega brand is recommended by the well-known blogger E. Kornilova, whose opinion I trust completely, so I exclusively take Omega from this brand.
6
Cognitive function
Omega-3 performs various functions in the body. They are crucial as components of phospholipids - fats that form cell membranes. Studies correlate omega-3 consumption with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Omega-3 fatty acids are parts of nerve cell membranes, significant for nerve impulse transmission, brain function, and reflexes. They may also help normalise fat metabolism and blood pressure.
4
Eicosapentaenoic acid affects brain levels
Providing lysophosphatidylcholine-bound omega-3 fatty acids increased eicosapentaenoic acid, but not docosahexaenoic acid, in the cortex of mice with the apolipoprotein E3 or E4 allele.
We explored the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on Alzheimer’s disease-related conditions through a study involving the administration of lysophosphatidylcholine-bound omega-3 fatty acids to mice with different genetic backgrounds. Specifically, we looked at how these supplements affected levels of EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the brains of mice that carry the apolipoprotein E ε3 (APOE3) or ε4 (APOE4) allele.
Over two and four months, the mice were given oral doses of LPC n-3, containing both EPA and DHA, and compared to a control group that received sunflower oil. After two months, we observed that the EPA levels increased in the brains of APOE3 mice, while there was no significant change in EPA or DHA levels for the APOE4 mice. After four months, both groups had elevated EPA levels, but DHA showed no significant improvement.
These findings suggest that while EPA supplementation can increase EPA levels in the brain, especially in those with the APOE3 allele, the same cannot be said for DHA or for APOE4 carriers. This highlights important differences in how genetic factors can influence the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acid treatments.
7
Effectiveness of EPA on Alzheimer's
The effects of omega-3, DHA, EPA, Souvenaid® in Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
We set out to understand the role of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and its effects on Alzheimer’s disease through a systematic review and meta-analysis of various studies. The research included a wide range of studies that looked at how dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), influenced cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's.
Our analysis reviewed 14 studies involving 2,766 participants, and we found that the overall effects of these supplements were promising. While many studies reported beneficial cognitive outcomes—about 58% noted improvements—the effect of EPA specifically was harder to isolate from other omega-3 supplements and Souvenaid®.
We noted that the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scale, a measure of cognitive decline, showed a significant slowdown in progression among those taking omega-3 supplements. However, it’s essential to mention that there weren't any significant differences found between the various types of supplements used. Additionally, while Souvenaid® appeared to negatively affect ventricular volume, EPA’s specific impact remains clouded by the combination with other supplements.
Overall, while EPA is part of the discussion, distinguishing its unique benefits in Alzheimer’s treatment is challenging due to the complexities of the study designs and confounding factors.
8
EPA disrupts Aβ fibrils
Destabilization of Aβ fibrils by omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: a molecular dynamics study.
We explored the potential of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, in destabilizing the toxic aggregates of the Aβ protein that form plaques in Alzheimer's disease. The study utilized advanced molecular dynamics simulations to assess how EPA interacts with these fibrils over time.
Throughout the analysis, we observed that EPA not only binds to the Aβ fibrils but also disrupts their structure. As a result, we noted increased root mean square deviation, radius of gyration, and surface area while the number of hydrogen bonds and β-sheet content decreased. This indicates that EPA interferes with the fibrils' stability, potentially paving the way for therapeutic applications in Alzheimer’s treatment.
Importantly, the interactions demonstrated that the polar head of EPA aligns with positively charged residues in the fibril, showcasing a clear mechanism behind its destabilizing effects. The hydrophobic tail of EPA competes with the natural hydrophobic interactions within the fibrils, ultimately leading to their destabilization. Overall, our findings suggest that EPA could be a promising candidate for further drug development aimed at combating Alzheimer’s disease.
9
Eicosapentaenoic Acid shows promise
Efficacy and acceptability of anti-inflammatory eicosapentaenoic acid for cognitive function in Alzheimer's dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials with omega-3 fatty acids and FDA-approved pharmacotherapy.
We conducted a comprehensive analysis of how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, affects cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Our research included 52 randomized controlled trials involving over 21,000 participants, making this one of the most extensive evaluations in this field.
The goal was to determine whether high doses of EPA could provide significant improvement in cognitive abilities and how this treatment compares to other FDA-approved medications. After examining the data, we found that long-term use of EPA at doses between 1500 and 2000 mg per day, especially when enhanced with antioxidants, had the greatest potential for improving cognitive function in people with AD.
In terms of acceptability and safety, we observed that EPA was comparable to placebo, meaning that the discontinuation rates and side effects were similar. These insights reinforce the notion that anti-inflammatory properties of EPA could play a significant role in managing cognitive decline among Alzheimer’s patients.
Looking ahead, we believe that future research should investigate different dosages of EPA, focusing on how it might help individuals with varying levels of inflammation and psychiatric symptoms.
References
Andriambelo B, Vachon A, Dansereau MA, Laurent B, Plourde M. Providing lysophosphatidylcholine-bound omega-3 fatty acids increased eicosapentaenoic acid, but not docosahexaenoic acid, in the cortex of mice with the apolipoprotein E3 or E4 allele. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2024;204:102661. doi:10.1016/j.plefa.2024.102661
Oye Mintsa Mi-Mba MF, Lebbadi M, Alata W, Julien C, Emond V, et al. Differential impact of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease. J Lipid Res. 2024;65:100682. doi:10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100682
Shinto LH, Murchison CF, Silbert LC, Dodge HH, Lahna D, et al. ω-3 PUFA for Secondary Prevention of White Matter Lesions and Neuronal Integrity Breakdown in Older Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7:e2426872. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.26872
Calderon Martinez E, Zachariah Saji S, Salazar Ore JV, Borges-Sosa OA, Srinivas S, et al. The effects of omega-3, DHA, EPA, Souvenaid® in Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep. 2024;44:545. doi:10.1002/npr2.12455
Wang Y, Zhang H, Ding F, Li J, Li L, et al. N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids attenuate amyloid-beta-induced toxicity in AD transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans via promotion of proteasomal activity and activation of PPAR-gamma. J Nutr Biochem. 2024;127:109603. doi:10.1016/j.jnutbio.2024.109603
Wang YW, Li Q, Li XY, Zhao YC, Wang CC, et al. A Comparative Study about the Neuroprotective Effects of DHA-Enriched Phosphatidylserine and EPA-Enriched Phosphatidylserine against Oxidative Damage in Primary Hippocampal Neurons. Mar Drugs. 2023;21. doi:10.3390/md21070410
Sugasini D, Park JC, McAnany JJ, Kim TH, Ma G, et al. Improvement of retinal function in Alzheimer disease-associated retinopathy by dietary lysophosphatidylcholine-EPA/DHA. Sci Rep. 2023;13:9179. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-36268-0
Tseng PT, Zeng BS, Suen MW, Wu YC, Correll CU, et al. Efficacy and acceptability of anti-inflammatory eicosapentaenoic acid for cognitive function in Alzheimer's dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials with omega-3 fatty acids and FDA-approved pharmacotherapy. Brain Behav Immun. 2023;111:352. doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2023.04.017
Wei BZ, Li L, Dong CW, Tan CC, Xu W. The Relationship of Omega-3 Fatty Acids with Dementia and Cognitive Decline: Evidence from Prospective Cohort Studies of Supplementation, Dietary Intake, and Blood Markers. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023;117:1096. doi:10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.04.001
Yavari M, Ramalingam L, Harris BN, Kahathuduwa CN, Chavira A, et al. Eicosapentaenoic Acid Protects against Metabolic Impairments in the APPswe/PS1dE9 Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Model. J Nutr. 2023;153:1038. doi:10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.01.030
Yang L, Zhao F, Sun Y, Wang Z, Li Q, et al. N-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Elderly with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Alzheimers Dis. 2024;99:S81. doi:10.3233/JAD-220863
Li Y, Lai W, Zheng C, Babu JR, Xue C, et al. Neuroprotective Effect of Stearidonic Acid on Amyloid β-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rat Hippocampal Cells. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022;11. doi:10.3390/antiox11122357
Torres-Mendoza BMG, Ortiz GG, Sánchez-Romero L, Delgado-Lara DLC, García Martínez MT, et al. Dietary fish oil increases catalase activity in patients with probable Alzheimer's disease. Nutr Hosp. 2022;39:1364. doi:10.20960/nh.04153
Chu CS, Hung CF, Ponnusamy VK, Chen KC, Chen NC. Higher Serum DHA and Slower Cognitive Decline in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease: Two-Year Follow-Up. Nutrients. 2022;14. doi:10.3390/nu14061159
Gupta S, Dasmahapatra AK. Destabilization of Aβ fibrils by omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids: a molecular dynamics study. J Biomol Struct Dyn. 2023;41:581. doi:10.1080/07391102.2021.2009915
Lin PY, Cheng C, Satyanarayanan SK, Chiu LT, Chien YC, et al. Omega-3 fatty acids and blood-based biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment: A randomized placebo-controlled trial. Brain Behav Immun. 2022;99:289. doi:10.1016/j.bbi.2021.10.014
Zhang D, Wang Z, Wang X, Yue W, Zhang L, et al. Cosupplementation with DHA and medium-chain triglycerides ameliorates NAFLD and reduces amyloid-β accumulation by modulating hepatic lipid metabolism in APP/PS1 mice. Lipids. 2025. doi:10.1002/lipd.12436
Otaegui L, Urgin T, Zaiter T, Zussy C, Vitalis M, et al. Nose-to-brain delivery of DHA-loaded nanoemulsions: A promising approach against Alzheimer's disease. Int J Pharm. 2025;670:125125. doi:10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.125125
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