Abstract

MARINE ALGAE AS A SOURCE OF PREVENTION AND RELIEF IN THOSE WITH DEPRESSION AND DEMENTIA

Ilya Wang, Yogini Jaiswal and Leonard Williams*

ABSTRACT

Although not as common as those in young adults, the prevalence of late-onset depression has been reported to be increasing in its global incidence. Late-onset depression is generally a product of cognitive deficit and decline, rather than genetic history. Past studies have shown links between the development of depression, dementia, and vascular diseases especially with respect to the nutritional constituents as causative factors. Individuals with depression and dementia tend to be deficient in folate, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and vitamin B12. Folate and vitamin B12 are essential to the metabolism of neurotransmitters necessary in mood regulation (dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenalin), as well as the conversion of homocysteine to cysteine. High levels of homocysteine may result in damage to neuronal pathways and DNA, increasing the risk of dementia. Another risk factor of dementia is the rapid metabolism of neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh) due to the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Various types of seaweeds have been found to contain properties and nutrients to alleviate such symptoms and risk factors. These remedies include high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, folate, vitamin B12, AChE inhibition and fucoidan. Fucoidan is a compound found in seaweeds that has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Further research with the incorporation of seaweeds into common diets may allow for natural prevention and treatment.

Keywords: Marine algae, Late-onset depression, Alzheimer’s disease, Nutritional deficiencies, Fucoidan, Acetylcholinesterase inhibition