Taking an Omega-3 Supplement Doesn’t Boost Memory or Cognition, Study Finds
The two-year trial found DHA levels rose 17% in the brain, but memory, cognition and hippocampal shrinkage did not improve, researchers said.
- On Thursday, a USC study published in The Lancet eBioMedicine found high-dose Omega-3 supplements failed to improve memory or cognition in older adults, despite successfully reaching the brain.
- The 24-month clinical trial tracked 365 adults aged 55 to 80 with dementia risk factors, testing whether daily 2,000 mg DHA doses could provide cognitive benefits associated with dietary Omega-3s.
- While Omega-3 levels in cerebrospinal fluid rose by 17%, researchers observed no improvement in memory or hippocampal shrinkage, suggesting supplements cannot replicate benefits of a Mediterranean-style lifestyle.
- Lead author Dr. Hussein Yassine, Volke Endowed Professor of Neurology at USC, described supplements as a "blunt instrument," while Alzheimer's researcher Dr. Richard Isaacson called the effect a "drop in the ocean."
- Americans spend over $1 billion annually on these supplements, yet Yassine's team is now researching how dietary patterns and genetic risk influence the brain's ability to utilize nutrients for cognitive preservation.
22 Articles
22 Articles
Startling science: Taking an omega-3 supplement doesn’t boost memory or cognition
If you’re taking an omega-3 fish oil or algae supplement to stave off Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, take note: A new clinical trial finds these supplements did nothing to improve memory, cognition or brain cell loss.
Fish oil supplements show little benefit for Alzheimer's prevention
Americans spend more than $1 billion annually on fish oil supplements, in part due to purported cognitive benefits from the omega-3 fatty acids they contain, essential nutrients that help form brain cell connections needed for cognition.
University of Southern California
NewswiseFish oil supplements may not prevent Alzheimer’s-related decline
LOS ANGELES — Americans spend more than $1 billion annually on fish oil supplements, in part due to purported cognitive benefits from the omega-3 fatty acids they contain, essential nutrients that help form brain cell connections needed for cognition. However, a new Keck Medicine of USC study published today in eBioMedicine suggests that incr...
Fish oil supplements may not prevent Alzheimer's-related decline, clinical trial suggests
Americans spend more than $1 billion annually on fish oil supplements, in part because of purported cognitive benefits from the omega-3 fatty acids they contain, essential nutrients that help form brain cell connections needed for cognition.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 89% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
