Fish Oil Does Not Improve Cognition

Fish oil does not improve cognitive function, according to new research. Researchers in England found that fish oil did not benefit the cognitive function of elderly adults after two years of daily supplementation. In a double-blind control trial, 867 people with a mean age of 75 years were assigned to either a fish supplement (200 mg EPA plus 500 mg DHA) or placebo (olive oil) group. Participants were given various tests for cognition including reaction time, spatial memory, and processing speed measurements. No significant differences were seen between groups.

Dangour AD, Allen E, Elbourne D, et al. Effect of 2-y n23 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on cognitive function in older people: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial1–3. Am J Clin Nutr. Published ahead of print April 21, 2010. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.2009. 29121.