Scientists from Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin have found that omega-3 supplementation may help improve memory function in healthy older adults.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to shrink (atrophy) and brain cells to die. It is the most common cause of dementia — a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral, and social skills that affects a person’s ability to function independently.
The disease process often begins years before symptoms appear, making prevention strategies especially important.
Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are widely recognized as essential components of a healthy, balanced diet.
Previous research suggests that omega-3 LC-PUFA supplementation may benefit brain structure and function. However, experimental evidence in older adults without dementia has been inconsistent, possibly because traditional cognitive tests may not be sensitive enough to detect subtle improvements in healthy individuals.
In the new study, researchers investigated the effects of omega-3 supplementation on learning and memory formation.
The study involved 44 healthy adults aged 50 to 75 years (20 women). Participants received either omega-3 LC-PUFAs (2,200 mg per day) or a placebo for 26 weeks.
Before and after the intervention, the researchers assessed participants’ memory performance using standardized tests.
The results showed that those who took omega-3 supplements demonstrated significantly better memory performance compared with those who received the placebo.
These findings provide additional evidence that omega-3 supplementation may have beneficial effects on memory function in healthy older adults.
However, the study had limitations, including its relatively short duration. Future research is needed to determine whether long-term omega-3 supplementation produces similar or greater benefits for memory.
The research was conducted by Nadine Külzow and colleagues and published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.
