Most people don't get enough of the key nutrients linked to Alzheimer's risk

Experts explain why the deficiency is so common — and making simple dietary or dietary changes that can help close the gap.

More than three-quarters of the world's population does not get enough of the key nutrients linked to lifelong health and a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease.

New research shows that 76% of people worldwide do not meet recommended intakes of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are found in fatty fish.

Spoke to GP Dr Tony Banerjee, who has over two decades of experience.He said: "Omega-3 fatty acids are not health related. They are essential nutrients linked to heart health, brain development, inflammation control and healthy ageing."

It is recommended that adults consume 250 mg of combined EPA and DHA, and an additional 100-200 mg of DHA is recommended for pregnant women.

But involved in the study and scientific director at Holland & Barrett and visiting researcher at the University of Southampton, Dr."Achieving the recommended intake from diet alone can be challenging," AB Cawood said in a statement.

What about Omega-3?

The British Heart Foundation, a British charity that gives money that the body needs to make Omega-3, therefore it must come, therefore it must come, therefore it must come from food.

The omega-3 fatty acids most important for health are:

- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA): found in some nuts and seeds and oils derived from them.

- EicosapentaenEic acid (epa): Found in most fatty fish but in white fish and seafood.

- Asam Deposaha Hark (DHA): mainly in fatty fish, but also white fish and shellfish.

Algae is the only Omega-3 that is important because our bodies cannot make it.We can metabolize small amounts of algae and ads, but not enough to rely on - so it is still useful to eat foods that provide direct frequency.

Why Omega-3s Are Important for Life

Omega-3 consumption supports a healthy lifestyle at all stages of life, from reducing the chance of premature birth and helping the baby's visual and cognitive development to improving cardiovascular health and immune function. It is also associated with a reduced risk of depression and cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease.

Banerjee, founder of private health service Harledock, said meeting the guidelines was easier said than done due to several factors:

-Cost pressures

- Reduced availability of fish in certain regions

- Cultural eating habits

He said: "There is widespread misunderstanding about what constitutes 'adequate' omega-3. All of these factors play a role. Even in countries with abundant seafood, many people do not consume oily fish regularly until they reach the recommended amounts."

How to increase omega-3 intake

Banerjee explains that the most effective approach for those who eat fish is to eat fatty varieties once or twice a week. The richest sources are mackerel, salmon, sardines, herring and anchovies, cold-water species that are naturally rich in EPA and DHA.

But not everyone likes fish, can't afford it, or follows a meat-based diet, so supplementation is often the only viable option.

Banerjee said: "A good supplement provides at least 500 mg of combined EPA/DHA per day, should be tested for purity and oxidation, and ideally in triglyceride form for optimal absorption. For vegetarians and vegans, algae-derived omega-3s offer an effective alternative."

Have a tip for a must-cover health story?Have a question about omega-3 fatty acids?Let us know via [email protected].

Calder, B. C., Cawood, A. L., James, C., Page, F., Putnam, S., & Minihan, A. M. (2025).A review of national and international recommendations for the intake of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids for healthy populations.Nutrition Research Reviews.https://doi.org/10.1017/S0954422425100279