Can omega-3, vitamin D, vitamin E and selenium supplements prevent Alzheimer's disease?
Here is the quick answer to that question.
First, let’s take a look at omega-3 supplements.
One might think that this fatty acid found naturally in certain fish, such as salmon, is protective against Alzheimer’s because it keeps neurons from the inflammation that is characteristic of the disease.
However, a literature review recently published in JAMA Neurology argues that this is not the case, except perhaps for those affected by the genetic form of the disease, which is caused by a mutation on the Apo gene leading to ApoE4 variant.
Further research is needed to determine the usefulness of omega-3 supplements for the individuals.
Vitamin D also deserves our attention.
According to a French study recently published in Alzheimer's & Dementia, which followed 916 participants for 12 years, vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of developing the disease 3 fold.
Therefore, it could be assumed that vitamin D supplements help to protect against Alzheimer's, but studies to support this hypothesis are still lacking.
On the contrary, the role of vitamin E and selenium supplements has been studied more substantially.
Due to their antioxidant properties, it was long thought that, these molecules could prevent Alzheimer's disease.
But, according to a 5-year study published in JAMA Neurology, this is not the case. The intake of vitamin E and / or selenium supplements over a 5-years period did not reduce the incidence of dementia among participants in the study.
According to research, using supplements does not appear to be efficient in preventing Alzheimer's disease.
A diet rich in green vegetables, fish, nuts and berries as suggested by the MIND regime might be a better way to lower your risk of developing the disease.
To learn more about the MIND diet, watch the short Alzheimer.tv video that addresses this topic.
- Associations of lower vitamin D concentrations with cognitive decline and long-term risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older adults
- Association of Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation With Alzheimer Disease Stage in Apolipoprotein E ε4 Carriers
- The Unfulfilled Promise of ω-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation
- Association of Antioxidant Supplement Use and Dementia in the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease by Vitamin E and Selenium Trial (PREADViSE)