An analysis of omega-3 clinical trials and a call for personalized supplementation for dementia prevention.

INTRODUCTION: Targeted interventions are needed to delay or prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. Poor dietary habits are associated with cognitive decline, highlighting the benefits of a healthy diet with fish and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Intake of omega-3 PUFAs docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), α-linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is linked with healthy aging, cardiovascular benefits, and reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. Although omega-3 has health benefits, its intake is often inadequate and insufficient in modern diets. Although fish oil supplements offer an alternative source, inconsistent results from clinical trials raise questions about the factors determining their success. AREAS COVERED: In this this review, the authors discuss the aforementioned determining factors and highlight strategies that could enhance the effectiveness of omega-3 PUFAs interventions for dementia and cognitive decline. Moreover, the authors provide suggestions for potential future research. EXPERT OPINION: Factors such as diet, lifestyle, and genetic predisposition can all influence the effectiveness of omega-3 supplementation. When implementing clinical trials, it is crucial to consider these factors and recognize their potential impact on the interpretation of results. It is important to study each variable independently and the interactions between them.

Nutrient Intake and Its Association with Appendicular Total Lean Mass and Muscle Function and Strength in Older Adults: A Population-Based Study.

Treatment options for sarcopenia are currently limited, and primarily rely on two main therapeutic approaches: resistance-based physical activity and dietary interventions. However, details about specific nutrients in the diet or supplementation are unclear. We aim to investigate the relationship between nutrient intake and lean mass, function, and strength. Data were derived from the Gothenburg H70 birth cohort study in Sweden, including 719,70-year-olds born in 1944 (54.1% females). For independent variables, the diet history method (face-to-face interviews) was used to estimate habitual food intake during the preceding three months. Dependent variables were gait speed (muscle performance), hand grip strength (muscle strength), and the appendicular lean soft tissue index (ALSTI). Linear regression analyses were performed to analyze the relationship between the dependent variables and each of the covariates. Several nutrients were positively associated with ALSTI, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (DHA, EPA), selenium, zinc, riboflavin, niacin equivalent, vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, and protein. After correction for multiple comparisons, there were no remaining correlations with handgrip and gait speed. Findings of positive correlations for some nutrients with lean mass suggest a role for these nutrients in maintaining muscle volume. These results can be used to inform clinical trials to expand the preventive strategies and treatment options for individuals at risk of muscle loss and sarcopenia.