Eating Fish Powers Brain
Wednesday, 26 October 2011, 16:39 IST
Printer Print Email Email
London: Eating fish, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, boosts blood flow to the brain and improves its performance. New research shows it can also quicken reaction times and reduce levels of tiredness in the brain even after performing tough tasks. British researchers say the findings could be particularly important for the elderly as these have the potential to stave off dementia, the British Journal of Nutrition reports. They conducted two studies to examine the effects of oily fish. Volunteers were given fish-oil supplements rich in DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, reports the Telegraph. Results of one showed that taking omega-3 supplements during mental tasks boosted blood flow to active areas of the brain. Another study looked at the impact of giving two fish-oil supplements to a group of volunteers aged 18-35 over three months. Results showed little difference in blood flow to the brain, but faster reaction times and lower levels of tiredness after being given a task to complete. Study author Philippa Jackson from Northumbria University, Britain, said: "These findings could have implications for mental function later on in life."
Source: IANS
siliconindia