Evidence supporting the use of: DHA
For the health condition: Parkinson's Disease

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid that has been investigated for its potential neuroprotective effects, including in the context of Parkinson's Disease (PD). The rationale for its use is based on preclinical studies suggesting that DHA may reduce neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal cell loss—mechanisms implicated in the progression of PD. Animal models have shown that DHA supplementation can mitigate dopaminergic neuron degeneration and improve motor function.

However, human clinical evidence remains limited and inconclusive. Observational studies have reported lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in patients with PD, and some small clinical trials have explored the impact of omega-3 supplementation (including DHA) on motor and non-motor symptoms. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in Neurology (2018) found no significant benefit of omega-3 supplementation on the progression of PD symptoms over 18 months. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that while DHA has plausible biological mechanisms and supportive data from animal studies, robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking to recommend DHA supplementation specifically for PD management.

In summary, the use of DHA in Parkinson's Disease is supported by scientific rationale and preclinical studies, but clinical validation is weak, and its routine use for PD cannot be justified based on current evidence.

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Products containing DHA

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