Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and brain health: Preclinical evidence for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases

These studies have shown that dietary n-3 PUFA treatments consistently improve cognitive performance in animal models and may also exert disease-modifying actions. N-3 PUFA also provide protection to dopaminergic neurons in animal models of PD and possibly recovery after lesion. Furthermore, some of these effects might depend on specific diet formulations to protect long-chain fatty acids from oxidation or synergies with other nutrients. More generally, this review aims at providing evidence that adjustments in the consumption of dietary lipids alone or combined with other nutrients may be a cost-effective intervention to optimize brain function and prevent AD or PD.