New research out of Sweden found that omega-3 fatty acids in supplements can cross the blood brain barrier in people with Alzheimer's disease, affecting known markers for both the disease itself and inflammation.  The blood-brain barrier serves to protect the brain from harmful chemicals existing naturally in the blood but also blocks the delivery of drug substances to the brain.  Researchers also found that levels of DHA correlated directly with the degree of change in Alzheimer's disease and inflammatory markers in the cerebrospinal fluid. Researchers in the field have long been interested in this link between Alzheimer's disease and inflammation, but attempts to treat the disease using traditional anti-inflammatory drugs have failed to produce any improvements in memory function. The findings are presented in the Journal of Internal Medicine strengthening the evidence that omega-3 may benefit certain forms of this seriously debilitating disease.

Omega-3 and other essential polyunsaturated fatty acids accumulate in the central nervous system (CNS) during gestation. It has been assumed that these acids are continually replaced throughout life, but little is known about how this occurs and whether changes in diet can affect the transport of important fatty acids across the blood-brain barrier.

In the present study, part of the larger OmegAD project, scientists examined whether omega-3 dietary supplements change the fatty acid profile of the CNS in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease. Thirty-three patients participated in the study, 18 of whom received a daily omega-3 supplement and 15 a placebo for six months. The results show that the first group had higher levels of both DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, another omega-3 fatty acid) in their cerebrospinal fluid (which surrounds the CNS) and blood. No such change was seen in the placebo group.

"Earlier population studies indicate that omega-3 can protect against Alzheimer's disease, which makes it interesting to study the effects of dietary supplements containing this group of fatty acids in patients who have already developed the disease," says the study's lead author Dr. Yvonne Freund-Levi.

At Healing 4 Soul, we use four really great omega-3 products that have been helping people with Alzheimer's, autism, ADHD, triglycerides and other issues.  We have had a high rate of success with Fermented Cod Liver Oil in particular. 

Alzheimer's is a subject matter we are familiar with.  Please read Natural Ways to Slow Down the Progession of Alzheimer's Disease for additional information.