How Does Omega 3 Fatty Acids Help with Aging?

Omega 3 fatty acids can also serve several purposes. It can prevent the onset of risk factors associated with heart disease, and it can improve cognitive function as well. Among the more than 6000 studies conducted to determine the effects of Omega 3 in relation to heart disease and memory, there were four studies that underscored the positive effects of Omega 3 and brain function.

Many of us have experienced “brain freeze” in which the ability to recall a recent event could not be achieved. A recent study concluded that one serving of blueberries a day may increase short-term memory problems among those affected. The explanation for this is that the brain can be exposed to oxidative damage and the antioxidants in blueberries help mitigate that damage.

However, the data in the four studies surrounding the effects of Omega 3 indicated that although there was no indication that these fatty acids reduced cognitive function in normal aging, there was evidence that Omega 3 fatty acids could possibly reduce the risk of dementia.

Clearly, Omega 3 fatty acids play a vital role in reducing the risk of heart disease. However, whether or not they definitively contribute to the improvement of short-term memory is still an on-going research and analysis process.

One could argue that recent results stated that deficiency in Omega 3 fatty acids increased the risk of mental disorders as well as dementia. If that is the case, then it would follow that increased intake of Omega 3 fatty acids would reverse the outcome.

There were three recent studies conducted among students and children in England, Australia, and Indonesia. The results in England showed that student performance improved among those who received Omega 3 fatty acids.

The Australia results indicated that children who took Omega 3 along with other vitamins and minerals produced significantly higher test scores. In Indonesia, on the other hand, Omega 3 had a substantial effect on girls only.

One of the most convincing arguments can be found in Okinawa, where people consume a regular diet of fish as well as a daily exercise program. Not only is their lifespan the longest in the world, but they have a very low incidence of mental disorders.