A recent study presented at the annual meeting of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology suggests that a new form of omega-3 fatty acid called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) could potentially help ease visual impairment in people with Alzheimer's disease. The study involved mice bred to exhibit processes found in early-onset Alzheimer's disease and was conducted by researchers who developed a form of DHA that can cross into the retina and help maintain photoreceptors.
The researchers tested their supplement on mice bred with aspects of early-onset Alzheimer's disease, and the dosage of the supplement is equivalent to about 250 to 500 mg of omega-3 fatty acids per day in humans. After six months, the mice given the supplements showed a 96 percent improvement in retinal DHA content and preserved retinal structure and function. The results suggest that this supplement could help prevent visual difficulties in humans with Alzheimer’s and other disorders with common DHA deficiency and vision impairment.
However, experts caution that the results of this study are preliminary, and people should not start taking omega-3 supplements based on these findings alone. Howard R. Krauss, MD, surgical neuro-ophthalmologist, and director of Pacific Neuroscience Institute's Eye, Ear & Skull Base Center at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, stated that the "therapeutic interventions which may demonstrate benefit to retinal health may also benefit brain health."
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to health, but the human body does not produce them naturally. Common foods high in omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, fish oil, flax seeds, chia seeds, soybean oil, and walnuts. People who do not routinely eat these foods can take supplements, such as fish oil or algal oil. However, it is important to note that over-the-counter supplements vary in purity and concentration, and some supplements, especially in excess, could carry a risk for some people. Therefore, anyone considering taking supplements should discuss their use with their primary care provider.
In conclusion, while the study suggests that a new form of omega-3 could potentially prevent visual decline from Alzheimer's disease, experts emphasize the need for further research to confirm the safety and efficacy of the supplement in humans.