Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), especially those of the omega-3 series (EPA and DHA from fish), are known for their anti-inflammatory activity. This effect is important for the prevention/treatment of various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease or rheumatoid arthritis. The latest paper by the group of Francesco Visioli (Universite “Pierre et Marie Curie”, Paris) now adds a new piece to the puzzle of how PUFA exert their beneficial activity in the cardiovascular system: by lowering the load of potentially deleterious oxidative and nitrosative stress.
“In conclusion, based on in vivo data showing reduced excretion of lipid peroxidation products, namely isoprostanes, after …read more

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences are seeking participants for a clinical trial to find out if omega-3 fatty acids– found naturally in fish oil, flaxseed and walnuts–may counteract depression.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH)-sponsored study, held in collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital, will recruit a total of 300 adults ages 18-80 who are experiencing significant symptoms of major depressive disorder and are in good health. The five-year study is designed to test the safety, effectiveness and tolerability of DHA and EPA against each other and a placebo. Participants will receive one of the two …read more

Two reports in the May issue of Archives of Ophthalmology points to two dietary interventions that may reduce the risk of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness among the elderly:
Higher intake of {omega}-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (DHA), as well as fish consumption, was associated with decreased likelihood of having neovascular AMD (advanced age-related macular degeneration).
Omega-3 fatty acids may influence processes involved in the development of blood vessel– and nerve-related diseases of the retina, the authors write. For instance, DHA may protect the retina by influencing which genes turn on and off, while fatty acids overall may eventually form …read more

We know that omega-3 fatty acids are good for the brain. We know that Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder. Connect the dots; wouldn’t it be logical to assume that omega-3 fatty acids may then help prevent or slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease?
That’s exactly what UC-Irvine scientists have proven scientifically:
DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, can slow the accumulation of tau, a protein that leads to the development of neurofibrillary tangles. Such tangles are one of two signature brain lesions of Alzheimer’s disease. DHA also was found to reduce levels of the protein beta amyloid, which can clump …read more

Previously, I’ve written entries showing how fish and fish-derived fatty acids may lower the risk of contracting a variety of cancers (prostate, renal and breast cancers, to name a few). Fish is also one of the best sources of DHA, which is good for the brain.
Here’s another feat for fatty fish: A recent report suggest that omega-3 and 6 fatty acids may help in easing behavioral problems associated with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

Eating Fabulous joined the 5th Healthy Eating, Diet and Fitness Carnival, hosted at IAteAPie.net. I entered the entry on Apple Juice and Memory. If you’re enjoying the entries here at Eating Fabulous, I’m sure you’ll be interested several of the entries in the carnival, too, particularly those in the first part. Have a look at these headlines from the entries discussing healthy eating:

Saturated Fat vs. Polyunsaturated Fat
The Science Of Life – Ayurveda That Works
Top 10 Reasons To Eat Brussels Sprouts
Fit For Kings – Chinese Herbal Remedies That Work
Product Review: Smart Balance Natural Peanut Butter with Omega Fatty Acids

If you’re …read more