Neurodegenerative diseases affect many people around the world. Without effective treatment or cure, the number of cases will continue to increase. Neuroinflammation is a key contributing factor to the pathology of such diseases and finding a way to harness the progression would be beneficial for those affected. Omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, have shown to decrease inflammation throughout the body and provide necessary support for the brain’s structure and function throughout life. Because we as humans are inefficient at synthesizing enough DHA and EPA that our bodies require, we must rely on our diets or supplements for these nutrients.
The gut-brain axis describes the relationship and interactions between our digestive system and central nervous system. By looking at how the gut can interact with our brain, we can start to examine how modulating our gut health via diet can translate and benefit our central nervous system. DHA and EPA have demonstrated various methods of decreasing inflammation within the gut, thus potentially leading to decreased inflammation in the brain. The goal of this paper is to explore the neuroprotective effects that consumed DHA and EPA can have on the central nervous system via modulation within the gut.
The gut-brain axis describes the relationship and interactions between our digestive system and central nervous system. By looking at how the gut can interact with our brain, we can start to examine how modulating our gut health via diet can translate and benefit our central nervous system. DHA and EPA have demonstrated various methods of decreasing inflammation within the gut, thus potentially leading to decreased inflammation in the brain. The goal of this paper is to explore the neuroprotective effects that consumed DHA and EPA can have on the central nervous system via modulation within the gut.