Evidence supporting the use of: Omega-3 fatty acids
For the health condition: Circulation (to the brain)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are widely studied for their effects on vascular health, including cerebral (brain) circulation. Scientific evidence suggests that omega-3s can improve endothelial function, decrease blood viscosity, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure, all of which are mechanisms that can enhance cerebral blood flow. Several studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation may improve cerebral perfusion and is associated with reduced risk of stroke and cognitive decline in older adults. For example, a 2014 randomized controlled trial published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases demonstrated that omega-3 supplementation improved cerebral blood flow in older adults. Additionally, omega-3s' role in reducing atherosclerosis and thrombosis risk further supports improved brain circulation.

However, while there is moderate scientific support, the evidence is not unequivocal. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews note variability in study design, dosage, and population, and some studies show minimal or no effect. There is also ongoing research into the optimal dose and duration for best results. In summary, there is scientific rationale and moderate clinical evidence supporting the use of omega-3 fatty acids to support brain circulation, but more large-scale, long-term studies are needed to fully establish their efficacy for this specific indication.

More about omega-3 fatty acids
More about Circulation (to the brain)

Other health conditions supported by omega-3 fatty acids

Acne
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
Addictions (drugs)
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Addictions (tobacco smoking or chewing)
Aging (prevention)
Alcoholism
Allergies (food)
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Alzheimer's Disease
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Autism
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Backache
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Blood Clots (prevention of)
Bloodshot Eyes
Body Building
Broken Bones
Bulimia
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Cardiovascular Disease
Cartilage Damage
Cholesterol (high)
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Circulation (poor)
Circulation (to the brain)
Concentration (poor)
Concussions
Confusion
Congestive Heart Failure
Dementia
Depression
Diabetes
Dysmenorrhea
Eczema
Emotional Sensitivity
Endometriosis
Epilepsy
Exercise
Eye Problems
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Eyesight (poor)
Fat Metabolism (poor)
Fatigue
Fatty Liver Disease
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Free Radical Damage
Glaucoma
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Hair Care (general)
Hashimoto's Disease
Hearing Loss
Heart (weakness)
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