
Research view
Title: | Impact of a diet rich in n-3 fatty acids on Alzheimer’s disease |
Author: | Abeer M. Eissa, Azza O. L. Saleh, Zeinab A. Abdel-Aal, Manal M. Anwarand Maysa A. Samy |
Abstract: |
Background
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The potential
effect of nutrition on development of AD has become a topic of increasing scientific
and public interest. High intakes of saturated and trans-unsaturated (hydrogenated)
fats were positively associated with increased risk for AD, whereas intakes of
polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats were protective against cognitive decline in
the elderly. Would foods rich in these fatty acids delay cognitive decline in elderly
people who are vulnerable to AD?
Objectives
The aim of this study was to measure the concentration of plasma fatty acids
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in patients with AD
and study the relationship between foods rich in these fatty acids and severity of
cognitive decline.
Methods
A total of 62 individuals were screened for cognitive decline using the mini-mental
status examination test and were diagnosed with AD using the Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th ed., diagnostic criteria. Data on nutrition
were obtained and blood samples were withdrawn to determine the plasma levels of
the fatty acids EPA and DHA.
Results
Patients with late-onset AD have significantly higher intake of food and food
supplements containing both fatty acids.
Conclusion
High intake of food and food supplements rich in EPA and DHA fatty acids may delay
the onset of AD.
Keywords:
Alzheimer, diet, n-3 fatty acids
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Journal: | Egyptian Journal of Psychiatry 2013, 34:61–68 |
Text: | |
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