Omega-3 for the Brain: High Levels in Red Blood Cells Fight Dementia

Omega 3 brain: EPA and DHA in red blood cells help fight dementia

High levels of Omega 3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the membranes of red blood cells counteract brain aging as well as the onset of dementia. This was discovered by a research team led by Zaldy Tan from the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles (USA). The study was published in the journal Neurology. Based on the data collected, the scientists concluded that in older age, this parameter positively influences both brain size and memory abilities.

Omega-3 for brain well-being

Various studies have linked a diet rich in Omega-3 to the reduction of the risk of dementia. It has also been demonstrated that high blood levels of DHA and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid, another dietary Omega-3) correspond to a lower likelihood of developing certain neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, DHA, a nutrient abundant in fatty fish and fish oil supplements, allows to:

• reduce blood pressure;
• counteract atherosclerosis;
• lower triglyceride levels.

All these actions have a positive effect on the vascular system and can help delay the onset of symptoms of brain aging.

Omega-3 against dementia: new confirmations

The new study involved 1,575 men and women with an average age of 67 years, not affected by dementia. The group underwent the following tests:

• measurement of Omega-3 fatty acid levels contained in the red blood cell membrane;
• determination of their brain volume through magnetic resonance imaging;
• assessment of memory and other cognitive functions through specific tests.

It was found that individuals with lower DHA levels, compared to participants with higher amounts, showed significantly smaller brain size, visual memory, executive and organizational abilities. In individuals with lower DHA amounts, the volume of gray matter was also smaller. The authors explained that this parameter is an index of problems at the level of small vessels, and has been associated with an increased risk of stroke and dementia.

Omega-3 for a younger brain

The researchers emphasize the importance of the discovery, highlighting that this is the first study to detect an association between the composition of fatty acids in red blood cell membranes and the presence of early indicators of the development of dementia. Indeed, in this case, low DHA levels were correlated with reduced brain size and deficits in cognitive abilities in individuals not yet affected by dementia. According to Tan, the observed differences correspond to a brain structurally approximately 2 years older. As emphasized by the authors themselves, further research will confirm the results obtained during their studies and may deepen the analysis including data concerning the possible development of dementia.  

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