Omega-3 Supplements Can Cut Risk of Multiple Sclerosis (Study)

(Mirror Daily, United States) – Taking Omega-3 supplements or eating plenty of fish can dramatically reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis, new study suggests.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an auto-immune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the brain cells.

MS’s most common symptoms include issues with balance, fatigue, eyesight problems, and weakened muscles. It is unclear what triggers the condition, which lacks a cure right now. Therapies can only target the symptoms, not the cause.

This is why many studies focused on factors that can prevent the onset of the disease. A research team at Kaiser Permanente Southern California in Pasadena tested several foods and dietary supplements to see if they have any influence on MS.

Lead author Dr. Annette Langer-Gould and her team wanted to confirm a link between fish-rich diets and a lower risk of MS. The team underlined that MS is not only an inflammatory condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS). It also damages nerve cells in various regions of the CNS.

Omega-3 Can Protect the Brain

Researchers found that Omega-3 in fish and dietary supplements have neuroprotective capabilities. The fatty acid had been associated with many health benefits. It also seems to prevent brain damage and the onset of neurological conditions.

Some species of fish and seafood are rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), which play neuroprotective roles.

The study involved 1,153 participants with the average age of 36. Half of the volunteers had been diagnosed with MS. The research team focused on the participants’ dietary choice, fish intake, and omega-3 supplementation (if any).

Some participants ate fish at least once a week and took omega-3 supplements. Other participants stayed away from fish and the supplements. Subjects’ favorite fish were tuna, shrimp, and salmon.

Researchers found that the group that ate fish had a 45% lower risk of developing MS when compared to non-eaters.
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John Birks

John holds a diploma in journalism from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. He covers the technology, social media, green business, eco-travel, politics, arts culture.