Prevents Mental Decline
As the body ages, brain functions slow down, and the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like dementia increases. However, research shows that those who consume more fish generally experience a much slower decline in brain function as they age. In addition, there are reports that omega-3 may protect against dementia, although there isn’t enough solid scientific evidence to support the theory.
Studies focusing on the links between eating fish and dementia have led to mixed results. One study found the regular consumption of fish to potentially minimize the chances of getting dementia by over forty percent to those who didn’t. On the other hand, another study that looked into fish in the dietary regimen of people for over a number of years saw little to no changes in risk factors for dementia regardless of fish consumption. Clinical trials have also been conducted on omega-3’s effects with unclear and often contradicting results.
Nevertheless, most of the research surrounding omega-3 shows that the nutrients may enhance memory, especially in older adults. In doing so, it may provide some measure of protection from dementia and other similar diseases like Alzheimer’s, making people less susceptible to age-related decline of their cognitive functions.
