At a time when an estimated 2.5 million Americans have been diagnosed with epilepsy, one of the most common disorders of the nervous system, there is good news: eating more fatty fish, such as canned tuna, may help to control the seizures associated with the disease.
At the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology, researchers from the Emory University School of Medicine announced the findings of a new study, showing that people with a common type of seizure (refractory complex partial seizures) often have significantly lower amounts of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in their blood. Because this form of epilepsy is often resistant to drug treatment, the researchers suggest that an important way to control these seizures may be as simple as consuming more foods rich in DHA, such as canned tuna.
Comprising approximately 40 percent of the polyunsaturated fatty acid content in the cell membranes in the brain, DHA is an important structural component of brain tissue. Some scientists now believe that a deficiency of DHA in the diet could translate into impaired brain function. In fact, research reveals that low serum DHA levels are also a significant risk factor for the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Because the body does not produce DHA naturally, the only source is through the diet, mainly in fatty fish.
“This study, if confirmed by additional research, supports the evidence that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish are important for brain function,†said Joyce Nettleton, D.Sc., R.D., author of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Health and a member of the Tuna Nutrition Council, which advises USTF on nutrition and public health matters. “We know that fatty fish is rich in DHA, so adding canned tuna and other types of fish to the diet may help maintain brain function throughout life.â€
Of the top 10 most commonly consumed fish in this country, salmon and canned albacore tuna have the highest levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nutritional Database.
Besides the new research findings regarding controlling epilepsy, a number of clinical and research studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, in particular DHA, are vital for cognitive function (the ability to perceive and interpret information correctly) -- especially as people age -- and for other brain functions. DHA may also help to combat depression. In fact, countries with the lowest rates of fish consumption (and thus the lowest consumption of DHA) tend to have the highest rates of depression.
According to Dr. Nettleton, the average American eats about 15 pounds of fish a year compared to about 70 pounds of poultry. Recognizing the many health benefits associated with fish consumption -- including the positive influence on brain functioning -- health organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American Dietetic Association recommend that people eat two servings a week of fish, especially fatty fish such as canned tuna.
Source: U.S. Tuna Foundation