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Published on: January 3, 2017
Primary nocturnal enuresis: omega-3 fatty acids may be of therapeutic value
Alan C Logan1, Francois Lesperance
1Nutrition Research Consulting, 50 Yonkers Terrace, 8-J Yonkers, NY 10704, USA. aclnd@cfs-fm.org
Insights
Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE), or bed-wetting, may be linked to insufficient omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are crucial for central nervous system development and may help regulate responses involved in PNE.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Neuroscience
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) is a common childhood urinary condition.
- Altered prostaglandin and nitric oxide levels are noted in PNE.
- PNE is associated with an inappropriate startle response and CNS maturational delay.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of omega-3 fatty acids in primary nocturnal enuresis.
- To explore the link between omega-3s, prostaglandin/nitric oxide production, and CNS function in PNE.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on PNE, prostaglandin/nitric oxide metabolism, and omega-3 fatty acid functions.
- Hypothesizing the impact of omega-3 intake on PNE pathophysiology.
Main Results:
- Omega-3 fatty acids can inhibit prostaglandin and nitric oxide production.
- Omega-3s are vital for central nervous system development and function.
- Inadequate omega-3 intake may contribute to impaired inhibitory control in PNE.
Conclusions:
- Omega-3 fatty acids show potential therapeutic value for primary nocturnal enuresis.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the role of omega-3s in managing PNE symptoms.
Abstract:
Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE), or bed-wetting, is a distressing urinary condition which can persist through childhood and beyond. Altered prostaglandin and nitric oxide production have been observed in children with PNE, and prostaglandin inhibitors are known to be of therapeutic value. Omega-3 fatty acids have the potential to influence the symptoms of PNE by inhibition of prostaglandin and renal nitric oxide production. In addition, children with PNE have an inappropriate startle response and an apparent maturational delay of the central nervous system. Research clearly shows that omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in the development and function of the central nervous system. It is our contention that inadequate omega-3 intake may play a role in the lack of inhibitory input to the startle and micturition centers in PNE.
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