Taking omega-3 supplements on a daily basis does not seem like it provides protection against the decline of memory and thinking skills in adults that are older, says a new review of evidence.
Researchers have felt that since the body’s brain has many polyunsaturated fatty acids like the ones in fish oil, adding to them by taking omega-3 supplements would boost an individual’s memory and help slow down the cognitive dementia and decline.
However, recent trials for the supplements have resulted in disappointing results. Researchers looked recently at three studies that lasted from between 180 days and three years. After studying the results, the researchers found no difference in the change of memory or learning tests in the 4,000 people who ingested sunflower, omega-3 supplements or olive oil.
The findings do not rule out the possibility of a benefit in brain health in some people that take the supplement, and long term usage of the supplement may still be determined helpful for maintaining memory and thinking skills.
The three studies all included cognitively healthy individuals who were 60 years of age or older and were randomly selected to take margarine or supplements with a placebo or fish oil. In all three studies, no comparative benefit was found for fish oil with regard to cognition, including number and word learning tests.
