A recent study finds out that Omega-3 is beneficial for improving the brain’s development and function. This study is tested on patients suffering from heart diseases (coronary diseases).
Omega-3 is a poly-unsaturated fatty acid. It is characterized by the presence of a double bond three atoms away from the terminal methyl group in their chemical structure. This fatty acid is useful to keep our brain sharp as we grow old.
Therefore, we can say that the risk of dementia which is seen to increase with a heart disorder patient decreases. The study was done with the help of 250 patients with coronary artery illness. All of them were divided into 2 sets.
One group was given supplements of omega-3 fatty acids. While the other group was not provided with the supplements and acted as a control group. After 30 months of study, it was observed that the first group taking the supplements showed better brain signal speed, better coordination and no signs of memory loss.
Dr. Francine Welty who is a cardiologist at Harvard Medical School said that they have studied only the patients who were not affected by dementia. Other scientists and researchers are looking forward to studying patients who are suffering from memory loss.
Dr. Welty and her team utilized FDA approved omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Dr. Bhavya Vemuri, one of the researchers is going to present the initial findings of the research at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions. The presentation will happen on Saturday in Philadelphia.
DEMENTIA
Dementia includes all the brain-related illness. Diseases such as memory loss – Alzheimer’s and all diseases involving abnormal brain changes. These changes affect the thinking ability, behavior and disturb the normal day-to-day tasks.
Benefits of Omega-3
Omega-3 FA helps to develop cell membranes. The body utilizes these FA in various brain functions. However, our body can not generate omega-3 so we need to consume it from outside sources (diet).
Plant sources containing omega-3 are green leafy vegetables, nuts, flaxseeds, and vegetable oils. Besides this, fish oil is a major source of omega-3 fatty acids.