Omega 3 supplements found to be ineffective for dementia
Published 13 July 2009
Results from two large studies using DHA, an omega 3 fatty acid, were reported today at the Alzheimer’s Association 2009 International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease (ICAD 2009) in Vienna.
The trials showed mixed results for older people.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is naturally found in the body in small amounts, and is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain. Omega 3 is naturally found in oily fish. These two studies looked at the effectiveness of omega three supplements for reducing cognitive decline.
The first trial, conducted by the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study (ADCS) found that there was no benefit of omega 3 supplements for people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease over 18 months. The second trial looked at the benefits of the compound in healthy people to see its effective on age related cognitive decline.
Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Ends
Reference: Alzheimer's Association abstracts
Notes to editors
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is naturally found in the body in small amounts, and is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain. Omega 3 is naturally found in oily fish. These two studies looked at the effectiveness of omega three supplements for reducing cognitive decline.
The first trial, conducted by the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study (ADCS) found that there was no benefit of omega 3 supplements for people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease over 18 months. The second trial looked at the benefits of the compound in healthy people to see its effective on age related cognitive decline.
'While we know that diet is an important factor in reducing your risk of developing dementia this study suggests that taking omega 3 supplements may not be effective in lowering your risk. However, it's important to remember that a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruit and fish which are all naturally high in omega 3, antioxidants and other helpful factors has been shown to help. A healthy heart means a healthy brain so Alzheimer's Society top tips are to eat a healthy diet, exercise, don't smoke and make sure you get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked. '
Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Ends
Reference: Alzheimer's Association abstracts
Notes to editors
- Alzheimer's Society researchers at ICAD are available for interview or comment on request
- International Conference of Alzheimer's Disease runs from 11 - 16 July
2009 for further information please visit www.alz.org/icad
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with
dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can
donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting www.alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk
