Positive Health Online

Abstract

ISSA and co-workers, The Southern California Evidence-Based Practice Center - RAND Health, Santa Monica, CA, USA, have reviewed (23 references) the role of n-3 fatty acids in ageing and dementia.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to systematically review the published literature on the effects of n-3 fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids) on measures of cognitive function in normal ageing, incidence and treatment of dementia.

Background

Methodology

Computerized databases were searched for published literature to identify potentially relevant studies with the intent to conduct a meta-analysis.

Results

In 5,865 screened titles, 497 studies were reviewed, of which 49 underwent a detailed review. 5 studies were found that fulfilled all the inclusion criteria. A single cohort study has assessed the effects of n-3 fatty acids on cognitive function with normal ageing and found no association for fish or total n-3 consumption. In four studies that assessed the effects of n-3 fatty acids on incidence and treatment of dementia, a trend in favour of n-3 fatty acids (fish and total n-3 consumption) toward reducing risk of dementia and improving cognitive function was reported.

Conclusion

The available data are insufficient to draw strong conclusions about the effects of n-3 fatty acids on cognitive function in normal ageing or on the incidence or treatment of dementia. However, limited evidence suggests a possible association between n-3 fatty acids and a reduced risk of dementia.

References

Issa AM, Mojica WA, Morton SC, Traina S, Newberry SJ, Hilton LG, Garland RH, Maclean CH. The efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids on cognitive function in aging and dementia: a systematic review. Dementia & Geriatric Cognitive Disorders 21 (2): 88-96, 2006.