News
Carotenoids benefit eye health
22 December 2009
A new review confirms that lutein and zeaxanthin benefit visual performance.
09 October 2013
Higher intakes of omega-3 fatty acids seem to be associated with a significant reduction in the risk of developing depressive symptoms in women, reports new US research.
The observational study estimated omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acid intakes and measured self-reported symptoms of depression in 1,746 men and women, aged 30 to 65 years (1). The study results showed that while adequate intakes of the omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid (LA) were observed in 43 to 59% of men and women, significantly fewer participants, between 5.2 and 17.2%, achieved adequate intakes of omega-3 fatty acids – eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The prevalence of elevated depres-sive symptoms was 18.1% among men and 25.6% among women. However, women with the highest intakes of omega-3 fatty acids had a significant 49% reduction in the risk of developing elevated depressive sym-ptoms.
The researchers commented that these findings supported the hypothesis of a protective effect of omega-3 fatty acids against depressive symptoms, particularly among women (2). They stated that although reverse causality could not be ruled out, it was more likely that reduced concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids con-tributed to symptoms of depression and not vice-versa. However, additional studies using supplemental omega-3 fatty acid intakes in combination with dietary intakes would be necessary to verify a cause-and-effect relationship. Speculating on potential biochemical mechanisms, the scientists said that omega-3 fatty acids may positively influence symptoms of depression by affecting the serotonergic neurotransmitter syst-em, promoting the formation of anti-inflammatory compounds (while omega-6 fatty acids are thought to promote pro-inflammatory eicosanoids), or influencing impaired phospholipid metabolism and fatty acid–related signal transduction.
22 December 2009
A new review confirms that lutein and zeaxanthin benefit visual performance.
17 January 2018
Evidence has emerged that genistein intake may have health benefits that span heart disease, cancer, bone and brain health. Read more about the latest science.
9 December 2011
People who eat fish on a weekly basis may be both improving their brain health and reducing their risk of developing mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease, according to a new US study.