According to a study out of the University of California – Los Angeles, consuming fructose, a type of sugar, alters hundreds of genes that may be linked to many diseases. Importantly, an omega-3 fatty acid known as DHA seems to reverse the harmful changes produced by fructose.
Fructose is ingested by humans when products they eat and drink are artificially sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup. This changes the genes in the brain which are linked to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Thankfully, DHA can reverse these changes.
“DHA changes not just one or two genes; it seems to push the entire gene pattern back to normal, which is remarkable,” said one researcher. “and we can see why it has such a powerful effect.” The way to get DHA that strengthens synapses in the brain and enhances learning and memory is through wild salmon, walnuts, flaxseed, fruits, and vegetables, and more.
The researchers tested this with rats in a maze and found that fructose impaired memory. And that the rats given a diet of DHA and fructose were close to the control group of only water.
Razi Berry, Founder and Publisher of Naturopathic Doctor News & Review (ndnr.com) and NaturalPath (thenatpath.com), has spent the last decade as a natural medicine advocate and marketing whiz. She has galvanized and supported the naturopathic community, bringing a higher quality of healthcare to millions of North Americans through her publications. A self-proclaimed health-food junkie and mother of two; she loves all things nature, is obsessed with organic gardening, growing fruit trees (not easy in Phoenix), laughing until she snorts, and homeschooling. She is a little bit crunchy and yes, that is her real name.
