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Research suggests omega-3 may improve brain health

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Research suggests omega-3 may improve brain health

Research by dietician Dr Emma Derbyshire that is currently under review suggests that taking omega-3 supplements may have a beneficial effect on brain health at various life stages.

Dr Derbyshire, who is also a public health nutritionist and advisor to omega-3 and 6 capsule brand Equazen, carried out a systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that looked at whether omega-3 and 6 fatty acids (FAs) have an impact on aspects of brain health such as memory, learning and language use. The full paper is expected to be published in late September.

Five RCTs looked at omega-3 and 6 supplementation and neurodevelopment. General findings from these included improved maternal and infant plasma levels of FAs and reduced risk of poor language development.

Equazen points to another study suggesting that omega-3 and 6 supplements helped boost aspects of reading ability in children, particularly those with attention problems.

General findings in school age children and teenagers included improved plasma levels of FAs and a correlation between EPAs and improved mood. Four RCTs involving young people with ADHD found improvements in behaviour, attention and other areas.

Findings in young and midlife adults included stabilised feelings of anger and confusion and improved brain structure.

Dietary intake of oily fish – a rich source of omega-3 – is low in the UK population, claims Equazen. Dr Derbyshire comments: “Many of us have diets deficient in brain-building omega-3 fatty acids and important vitamins, minerals and micronutrients, while still managing to consume far too much sugar and an excess of unhealthy fats.”

Dr Derbyshire says “the latest science and studies show there is a lot we can do to maintain our emotional and intellectual brain power,” pointing to lifestyle interventions such as exercise, following a healthy diet and taking omega-3 supplements.

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