DHA intake improves cognition in those with mild impairment

The results from a recent study support the cognitive benefits of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, which have been consistently demonstrated with doses of 900 mg/day or greater.

The study carried out in China was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 240 (219 completed) Chinese individuals aged 65 and above with mild cognitive impairment.

The participants received either 2g/day of DHA or a corn oil placebo for 12 months. The specific measures of cognitive function were measured at baseline, six months and 12 months.

The study results showed that there was a significant difference in the Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient (IQ) in the DHA group versus placebo with IQ in the DHA group measuring 10 percent higher than the placebo group.

Additionally, there were statistically significant increases in two IQ sub-tests (Information and Digit Span).

The Information and Digit Span Subdomains are considered indicators of long-term and short-term memory respectively.

The findings suggest that DHA supplementation of 2g/day for 12 months in MCI subjects can significantly improve cognitive function.

While additional larger longer-term studies are needed to confirm the results, this paper adds to the body of science supporting DHA omega-3s and their role in supporting cognitive function.