The consumption of fish reduces the risk of cognitive decline, but poses environmental challenges.

A recent international study has revealed that regular fish consumption can reduce the risk of cognitive decline by 30%. This finding comes from a comprehensive review of 35 individual studies involving approximately 850,000 people worldwide. Researchers from various parts of the globe, including Oklahoma, South Africa, Italy, and China, found that those who consumed more fish were less likely to experience cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease.

Professor Giuseppe Grosso, co-author of the study and an academic in biomedical and biotechnological sciences at the University of Catania, explained that the relationship between fish consumption and cognitive health is not yet fully understood. However, it is suggested that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel may play an important role in this phenomenon. According to Grosso, bioactive oligopeptides present in fish, which are compounds made up of a few amino acids and offer benefits to the brain, could also be influential.

Despite these promising findings, the study also warns of a potential global fish supply crisis. Recent research published in the journal Science estimates that fish stocks are much lower than previously thought. Graham Edgar, a marine biologist at the University of Tasmania and the lead author of the study, points out that many species populations are overexploited and in a critical state that had not been reported before.

Edgar argues that many of the recoveries of fish stocks that had been considered successful are actually illusory, referring to them as "phantom recoveries." His analysis covered data from 230 fish stocks in various regions of the world, revealing that many highly managed stocks remain trapped in overexploitation, despite apparent increases in biomass in recent assessments.

In the UK, an initiative called Think Brain Health has emerged in response to growing concerns about brain health. Alzheimer’s Research UK has partnered with John West, one of the leading seafood brands, to promote this campaign, which aims to educate the public about the relationship between diet and dementia risk. The company will donate approximately $100,000 to support this cause, which will be featured on 13 million packages sold in UK stores.

The Think Brain Health campaign is based on the premise that up to 40% of dementia cases could be related to preventable factors. However, a recent survey revealed that only 30% of Britons were aware that it is possible to reduce the risk of dementia through lifestyle changes. In this regard, Alzheimer’s Research UK has expressed the need to raise public awareness.

The initiative is structured around three pillars: ‘Stay Sharp,’ ‘Stay Connected,’ and ‘Love Your Heart.’ The last pillar is directly related to the partnership with John West, given that a balanced and healthy diet is fundamental for both heart and brain health. The Mediterranean diet, which includes a high consumption of fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil, has been identified as a dietary pattern that promotes the preservation of cognitive abilities.

The World Health Organization (WHO) supports the idea that a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. While the evidence continues to develop, a link between diet and brain health has begun to be established, which could have significant implications for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

However, it is vital for the scientific community to continue researching how omega-3s, found in fatty fish, influence brain health. Although the indications are encouraging and the relationship between diet and cognition has strengthened, there is still a long way to go before a definitive understanding of how these nutrients can contribute to protecting brain health and reducing dementia risk is achieved.

In conclusion, while fish consumption and a healthy diet emerge as key elements in the pursuit of better cognitive health, the challenges related to the sustainability of fishing must be urgently addressed. The intersection between brain health and environmental health has never been more evident, and it is essential that both consumers and policymakers take action to ensure a fish supply that not only benefits human health but also preserves our oceans for future generations.