Beneficial effects of Docosahexaenoic acid consumption on brain health: A mini-review

Docosahexaenoic acid consumption on brain health

Abstract

The aging of the world population has increased the number of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), which affects millions of people. Despite studies aimed at understanding this complex and progressive disease, there is still no cure. However, many compounds with pharmacological properties are recommended for patients to experience a reduction in Alzheimer's symptoms. This study focuses on highlighting the importance of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and its mechanism of action, aiming to contribute to the advancement of research in new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The role of nutrition in preventing dementia and AD raises increasing hope, with particular interest in dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids, as brain tissue membranes are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA. We searched the PubMed database for original articles published in English from 2018 to July 2023 using appropriate search terms: dietary fatty acids, DHA, Alzheimer's disease, and cognitive impairment. Furthermore, this mini-review provides a synopsis of recent literature involved in the processes of neurodevelopment and neuronal plasticity.