Fish oil supplements do not improve memory or prevent brain shrinkage in older adults

A clinical trial conducted by researchers at Keck Medicine of USC found that fish oil supplements, despite successfully delivering omega-3 fatty acids to the brain, did not improve memory, thinking abilities, or prevent brain shrinkage associated with Alzheimer's disease, ScienceDaily Health reported.

The study involved 365 adults aged 55 to 80 who were at increased risk of developing Alzheimer's and rarely consumed fish, a natural source of omega-3s. Participants took either omega-3 supplements or a placebo daily for two years.

Researchers noted that although omega-3s are essential for forming brain cell connections that support cognitive functions, supplements alone did not provide measurable cognitive benefits or protection against brain deterioration.

The findings, published in eBioMedicine, suggest that obtaining omega-3s through a healthy diet may offer benefits that supplements cannot replicate. The study's lead investigator emphasized that fish oil supplements should not be relied upon as a preventive measure against Alzheimer's disease.