ω-3 Fatty Acids and Prevention of Dementia

No evidence of benefit was noted in a 24-month trial.

Among many proposed interventions to lower risk for or severity of dementia is supplementation with ω-3 fatty acids, such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are commonly found in oily fish.

U.K. investigators enrolled 867 patients (age range, 70–79) from general practices; none had diabetes, and all had normal cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination scores ≥24). Participants were randomized to daily supplementation with EPA (200 mg) plus DHA (500 mg) or to olive oil placebo. The EPA and DHA dosages were based on U.K. dietary recommendations for fish consumption. The withdrawal and death rates were similar in the two groups — roughly 14% total.

At 24 months' follow-up, no differences were found between the tw…

Reviewing Author

Thomas L. Schwenk, MD

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Thomas L. Schwenk, MD

Disclosures

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ω-3 Fatty Acids and Prevention of Dementia

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Reviewing Author