“In conclusion, based on in vivo data showing reduced excretion of lipid peroxidation products, namely isoprostanes, after polyunsaturated fatty acid intake and our data on ROS (reactive oxygen species) production and direct superoxide scavenging by (long chain) PUFAs, notably those of the omega-3 series, we propose that this series of fatty acids might indirectly act as anti- rather than pro-oxidant in vascular endothelial cells, hence diminishing inflammation and, in turn, the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.”

As mentioned above, it is important to note that the antioxidant effect was not associated with a direct oxidation of the omega fatty acids, indicating that alterations in cellular signaling (and thus indirect antioxidant mechanisms) might be responsible for the observed antioxidant activity in vitro.

As the situation usually is more complex in vivo, the authors point out that additional research is required to determine whether the same effect(s) occur in animals and/or humans, too.

The manuscript has been published online in Pharmacological Research on March 18.

Post from: Blisstree

Omega Fatty Acids Lower Levels of Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress

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 drugs or a placebo for eight weeks in a randomized, double-blind manner.

If you want to participate, call 1-888-CEDARS3 for more information.

Post from: Blisstree

Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Treat Depression– Study Seeks Volunteers

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 compounds that promote cell survival and proper blood vessel function, reduce inflammation and maintain energy balance.

In another report, the results of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988 Through 1994 indicates that vitamin D may protect against the early stages of AMD, possibly by reducing inflammation or by preventing the growth of new blood vessels in the retina, which contributes to some forms of AMD. The authors admit though that further population studies are needed to confirm the vitamin D-AMD association.

Post from: Blisstree

Omega-3 Fatty Acid (DHA), Fish and Vitamin D May Help Prevent Macular Degeneration

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 in the brain and form plaques, the other Alzheimer’s lesion.

It has already been previously shown that DHA may be of help to Alzheimer’s patients, but this study shows that DHA may also delay the onset of the disease.

DHA is found in fish, eggs, organ meats, micro-algae, fortified foods and food supplements.

Post from: Blisstree

Omega-3 Fatty Acid (DHA) May DElay Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease

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).

A 4-month study of 17 year olds whose diets were supplemented with Efalex has been conducted. These boys were enrolled in a a “therapeutic community and residential school for boys suffering severe behavioural, emotional and social problems who were previously considered unteachable”. After 4 months, there was a marked beahavioral improvements: “better socialised, co-operative and took part in carpentry, art, or learnt basic office skills.”

Seventy-three per cent of the pupils showed a reduction in hyperactivity, 64 per cent an improvement in attention span and 69 per cent an improvement in general conduct. After taking omega-3 fatty acids supplements, 75 per cent of the children were no longer classified as being oppositionally defiant, in other words bloody-minded.

I wouldn’t describe my 4-year old preschooler as bloody-minded, but sometimes I wish he’d be a little less energetic, a little less hyperactive.

What is Efalex(Efamol)? According to the Efalex website:

Efalex is a unique formulation that contains carefully selected fish oil rich in DHA and Efamol Pure Evening Primrose Oil, which are excellent sources of omega-3 and omega-6 nutrients.

In the website, I didn’t see anything explicitly claiming that this dietary supplement can help with ADHD symptoms, though. Possibly has something to do with the complaint filed a few years ago as there seems to have been no definitive study linking Efalex and ADHD. In fact, a small study conducted in 1987 said Efamol supplementation, produces minimal or no improvements in hyperactive children.

Maybe I should just be serving fish more often.

Post from: Blisstree

Omega-3 and 6 Fatty Acids and Hyperactivity

• 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 up for more reading, and are interested in dieting, fitness, and humor-filled articles on health and health food, go check out Part 2 of the carnival, as well.

Post from: Blisstree

Carnival of Healthy Eating, 5th ed.