In 1998, Parkinson’s disease entered the public spotlight when Michael J. Fox announced his diagnosis. Since then, the disease has been extensively researched, yet we still don’t know what exactly causes it or how to cure it. One potential helper? A simple yellow capsule: Omega-3. In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for Parkinson’s disease.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) may be linked to genetics, toxins, or even certain viruses, but scientists haven’t pinpointed an exact cause. While the why remains unclear, we do know how the disease progresses.

PD begins in a brain region called the substantia nigra, where dopamine-producing neurons (nerve cells) reside. Dopamine is essential not just for mood but also for movement and coordination.

As these neurons die off, dopamine levels drop. This leads to hallmark PD symptoms like tremors, stiffness, slow movement (bradykinesia), and balance issues. Over time, this progressive disease worsens as more neurons are lost.¹

What are Omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients vital for overall health, particularly brain and heart health. They’re called “essential” because your body can’t produce them on its own, so you must get them from food or supplements. Omega-3s are key components of cell membranes, ensuring cells communicate effectively and function optimally.²

Omega-3s are naturally found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and herring. Plant-based sources include flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and algae. However, the most effective types for brain health (DHA and EPA) are mainly derived from marine sources. 

If your diet is low in these foods, our Ultra Pure Omega-3 Fish Oil softgels can help ensure your body and brain get the nutrients they need.

How can Omega-3 help Parkinson’s patients?

A growing body of research highlights the potential of omega-3 fatty acids in Parkinson’s disease. While more studies are needed, recent findings offer exciting possibilities! Here’s what we’ve uncovered so far:

1) Omega-3 can potentially lower the risk of developing Parkinson’s

Studies suggest that low omega-3 levels may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s. In fact, omega-3 deficiency has been linked to reduced dopamine production and fewer dopamine receptors, both of which contribute to the development of PD symptoms.^{3 4}

There’s good news though! A 2024 UK study involving over 385,000 participants found that regular omega-3 fish oil supplementation was linked to a 11% lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Notably, the combination of fish oil and physical activity provided the greatest benefit, suggesting they work synergistically to lower PD risk.⁵

2) It might delay motor-related symptoms   

Omega-3 supplements may help reduce certain movement-related issues like uncontrolled movements (dyskinesia) and slow movements (bradykinesia). While omega-3 can’t fully stop these symptoms from developing, it may delay their onset in early-stage patients.⁶

3) Omega-3 may protect dopamine-producing cells

Omega-3 appears to protect neurons responsible for dopamine production, helping preserve brain function. This neuroprotective effect makes omega-3 a potential “add-on” therapy alongside existing PD treatments. ⁷

4) Its anti-inflammatory properties may slow disease progression

Brain inflammation plays a significant role in Parkinson’s disease. Inflammation can worsen symptoms and speed up the loss of dopamine-producing neurons, which accelerates the disease. Encouragingly, omega-3 fatty acids may counteract this process thanks to their natural anti-inflammatory properties.

A 2024 systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated omega-3 supplementation in Parkinson’s patients. The trials showed that omega-3, often combined with vitamin E, improved outcomes in Parkinson’s patients. It reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance while improving scores on the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), which tracks disease progression.⁸ 

These findings suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may not only help manage symptoms of Parkinson’s but also reduce the risk of developing the disease and slow its progression. When combined with regular physical activity, the benefits appear even greater.⁵

5) Omega-3 might ease depression in Parkinson’s patients

Depression is a less-discussed but significant symptom of Parkinson’s. Since dopamine affects mood, its reduction in PD increases the risk of depression. Fortunately, omega-3 fatty acids have already been shown to support mental health, including reducing depressive symptoms. 

In a 2008 study on PD patients, omega-3 supplements led to remarkable improvements in depression symptoms. Over 12 weeks, 50% of participants had their symptoms cut in half, and 7 participants went into remission entirely. These results highlight omega-3’s potential as a safe and effective way to manage PD-related depression.⁹

How much Omega-3 should you take for Parkinson’s?

Surprisingly, there’s no universal guideline for daily omega-3 intake, despite its importance and extensive research. Recommendations vary depending on health goals. 

For example, the US Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests 500 mg of DHA and EPA to prevent deficiency, while the American Heart Association recommends 2,000–4,000 mg to lower triglycerides. The US FDA, however, advises not exceeding 2,000 mg of DHA and EPA daily from supplements. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.

For a high-quality omega-3 supplement, try our Ultra Pure Omega-3 softgels. Each serving delivers 2,250 mg of omega-3s in triglyceride form (not the cheaper ethyl ester used by other brands). Each bottle is good for 40 servings, giving you excellent value.  

Conclusion 

There’s still no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but new ways to manage symptoms and slow progression are being uncovered. Omega-3 fatty acids stand out as a promising option. They may help protect the brain, reduce inflammation, and improve symptoms like movement difficulties and depression.

If you or someone you know has PD, talk to a healthcare provider about whether omega-3 supplementation could be a helpful addition to their care.

References:

1. Zafar, Saman, and Sridhara S Yaddanapudi. “Parkinson Disease.” Nih.gov, StatPearls Publishing, 7 Aug. 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470193/. ︎
2. National Institute of Health. “Office of Dietary Supplements – Omega-3 Fatty Acids.” Nih.gov, 15 Feb. 2023, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional/. ︎
3. de Lau, L.M.L., et al. “Dietary Fatty Acids and the Risk of Parkinson Disease: The Rotterdam Study.” Neurology, vol. 64, no. 12, 27 June 2005, pp. 2040–2045, https://doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000166038.67153.9f. ︎
4. Healy-Stoffel, Michelle, and Beth Levant. “N-3 (Omega-3) Fatty Acids: Effects on Brain Dopamine Systems and Potential Role in the Etiology and Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Disorders.” CNS & Neurological Disorders – Drug Targets, vol. 17, no. 3, 19 June 2018, pp. 216–232, https://doi.org/10.2174/1871527317666180412153612. ‌ ︎
5. Lin, Fabin, et al. “Fish Oil Supplementation, Physical Activity and Risk of Incident Parkinson’s Disease: Results of Longitudinal Analysis from the UK Biobank.” Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, vol. 15, 29 Jan. 2024, https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2023.1304629. ︎
6. Delattre, Ana Marcia, et al. “Evaluation of Chronic Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplementation on Behavioral and Neurochemical Alterations in 6-Hydroxydopamine-Lesion Model of Parkinson’s Disease.” Neuroscience Research, vol. 66, no. 3, Mar. 2010, pp. 256–264, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neures.2009.11.006. ‌ ︎
7. Bousquet, M., et al. “Beneficial Effects of Dietary Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid on Toxin-Induced Neuronal Degeneration in an Animal Model of Parkinson’s Disease.” The FASEB Journal, vol. 22, no. 4, Apr. 2008, pp. 1213–1225, https://doi.org/10.1096/fj.07-9677com. ︎
8. Paraskevi Detopoulou, et al. “Omega-3 Fatty Acids’ Supplementation in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Clinical Nutrition Open Science, vol. 55, 1 June 2024, pp. 102–115, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nutos.2024.03.007. ‌ ︎
9. da Silva, Ticyana Moralez, et al. “Depression in Parkinson’s Disease: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study of Omega-3 Fatty-Acid Supplementation.” Journal of Affective Disorders, vol. 111, no. 2-3, Dec. 2008, pp. 351–359, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2008.03.008. ︎

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