New Research Casts Doubt on a Go-To Supplement for Brain Health
New studies suggest fish oil and omega-3 supplements may not prevent cognitive decline or Alzheimer's disease. A clinical trial found these supplements failed to improve memory or cognition in older adults. Some research indicates a link between these supplements and faster cognitive decline in older populations.
What changed
Recent clinical trials and a USC study now indicate fish oil fails to protect aging brains.
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Research Challenges Omega-3 Supplements for Brain Health
confidence 90%New studies suggest fish oil and omega-3 supplements may not prevent cognitive decline or Alzheimer's disease. A clinical trial found these supplements failed to improve memory or cognition in older adults. Some research indicates a link between these supplements and faster cognitive decline in older populations.
What's confirmed:
- A two-year trial found fish oil supplements did not improve memory or cognition in older adults at increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
- Research suggests fish oil supplements do not lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
- Clinical trials indicate omega-3 supplements did nothing to improve brain cell loss, memory, or cognition.
Still unconfirmed:
- Omega-3 supplements are linked to faster cognitive decline in older adults.
- Fish oil reaches the brain but fails to slow Alzheimer's decline.