[ North America ] Do omega-3 fatty acids slow disease progression in ALS patients?

A Harvard research group has found that higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), in ALS patients slowed disease progression and lowered the risk of death during the study period, suggesting that a diet rich in alpha-linolenic acid and higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of developing ALS.

While omega-3 fatty acids are already known to have a variety of health benefits, the study found that ALS patients who eat foods high in these acids may experience slower decline in physical fitness and increased survival.

Alpha-linolenic acid is found in flaxseed, walnuts, chia oil, canola oil, and soybean oil.

What are the main functions of foods containing omega-3 fatty acids in the body?

* Make hormones
* Make cell membranes
* Regulate gene function
* Regulate inflammation and immune response
* Maintain a healthy central nervous system

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/diet-high-in-omega-3-fatty-acids-linked-to-slower-als-progression-in-new-study#Examining-omega-3-fatty-acids-and-ALS

July 17, 2023　Yukari Hakansson