The Zoomer Report: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Alzheimer’s

A study in the journal Neurology finds that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, plentiful in fish and nuts, is associated with lower blood levels of beta-amyloid protein.

Amyloid plaques and tangles in the brain are characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease and are known to increase the risk for mental decline; blood levels of the protein may reflect levels of its deposits in the brain.

Researchers studied 1,219 mentally healthy people over 65, recording their diet over one and a half years and testing their blood for beta-amyloid and for vitamins and other nutrients.

They found that the higher the omega-3 fatty acid levels were, the lower the beta-amyloid levels. The subjects got their omega-3 mainly from fish, poultry, margarine and nuts.

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About The Zoomer Report
Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.
Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.