It is no secret that eating a diet rich in Vitamins and Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids is one of the best measures you could take to keep yourself in good health and fight off disease. Now, a new study carried out at the Oregon Health & Science University in the US provides direct evidence showing that you can actually prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease by consuming them regularly. The study involved 104 elderly people with an average age of 87 and good nutritional status. Their memory and thinking skills were tested, and some of them also underwent MRI scans in order to assess the volume of their brains.

Tests confirm value of Vitamins and Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids

Test results showed that those that had diets high in Vitamins B, C, D, and E, and Omega-3s, scored higher in the tests for mental ability. They were also less likely to show signs of the brain shrinkage normally associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The results were published in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

Vitamins and Omega-3s measured directly from the blood

One important difference that sets this study apart from similar ones is that this was the first to measure the concentration of the nutrients from blood samples obtained from the participants. In contrast, previous studies had relied on questionnaires in order to assess the content of the participant’s diet. This method was unreliable as it assumes that participants are being completely truthful when they fill up the questionnaire. By carrying out direct measurements of nutritional biomarkers, the researchers were able to obtain accurate results. This study is a strong piece of evidence supporting the beneficial role of Vitamins and Omega-3s in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Gene Bowman, the first author of the study, commented that he finds the possibility of potentially stopping the brain from shrinking and keeping it sharp by adjusting your diet “very exciting”.

How do you get the right dose of Vitamins and Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids?

Vitamins C, E and B are primarily found in fruits and vegetables, whereas Fish Oil is the most common natural source for Omega 3, and direct sunlight on your skin, the best source of Vitamin D. If you are concerned about increasing your intake of these nutrients to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, the first step is to switch your diet to include more of these foods daily. However, if you are already short of these nutrients you may find you need to take supplements to bring up your levels.

How do I know if I am getting enough of these essential nutrients to prevent Alzheimer’s disease?

To determine the answer our best advice is to come in to the Mr Vitamins store and 'Ask a Naturopath’.  It is only through talking to a professional qualified Naturopath that you can receive the right advice for your particular needs.  Our Naturopaths are always available to speak to you, they can ask specific questions to determine your health needs, and recommend any supplements they feel would be of benefit to you.

Achieve optimum Omega-3 levels with the right supplement

Mr Vitamins recommends Herbs of Gold nutritional supplement Omega-3 Concentrate

Concentrated Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 Concentrate is an essential fatty acid supplement containing highly concentrated fish oil, a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) Find out more about Omega-3 Concentrate and the recommended dosage here