Introduction

Whether you have only recently learned that you have a condition which will bring about mental decline, or you know someone affected by dementia, you’ll find information on here to keep you updated with developments in the treatment field, including medical research and health news. Our ongoing dialogue with our customers enables us to keep providing you with information and support. Look out for our quarterly newsletter (sign up on the left menu) and articles from leading experts in the field. You can find general health information in our Newsroom, where you’ll find our news releases, articles and media cuttings archive.

Symptoms

Causes

Alzheimer’s disease is so called after German neurologist Alois Alzheimer who described the condition as a physical disease of the brain. Neurofibrillary ‘plaques’ and ‘tangles’ are protein masses that develop and, ultimately, lead to the death of brain cells. This, in turn, leads to a shortage of neurotransmitters that are involved with the transmission of messages within the brain. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means that gradually, over time, more parts of the brain are damaged and, as this happens, the symptoms become more severe.

Fatty acids

Fatty acids help to form the phospholipids in the brain, which are vital for cell signalling. Cell signalling is important for brain function, the degeneration of which is the primary symptom of dementia. Without enough fatty acids, communication between our cells ceases to operate properly and this can have an adverse effect on brain function. Supplementing with EPA protects phospholipids by reducing the efficiency of the enzyme phospholipase A2, which acts like a pair of scissors releasing fatty acids from the cell membrane, and therefore improves cell signalling. EPA not only plays a major role in cell signalling but also contributes to the compaction and stabilisation of neurones and reduces the atrophy associated with the shrinking brain. The formation of neurofibrillary ‘plaques’ and ‘tangles’ which damages brain cells is complex, but has been shown to be suppressed by supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids. Indeed, epidemiological and clinical evidence indicates that increasing omega-3 fatty acids may have a protective effect against dementia. Westernisation and the increased consumption of trans fats are also implicated in the progression of dementia. Foods which are highly processed and those which contain margarine, for example, often contain trans fats and should, ideally, be avoided.

Recommendation

Vegepa pure EPA fish oil capsules

With its high EPA content we recommend Vegepa at 8 capsules daily for severe dementia and 4 capsules daily for those experiencing milder symptoms. A dosage of 2 capsules daily will provide the fatty acids needed to ensure protection against loss of cognitive function.