DHA improves cognitive function and memory in elderly people

A study in the November 2010 issue of Alzheimer's and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer Association suggests that taking docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) may improve memory and learning in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment.

The ‘Memory improvement with docosahexaenoic acid study' (MIDAS) is a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study which evaluated the effects of DHA, the principal Omega 3 acid found in the brain, on improving cognitive function in healthy elderly people with mild, age-related cognitive decline.

Commenting on the results of the study, researchers reported that taking DHA for six months does lead to an improvement in memory and learning in healthy adults suffering from mild memory impairment.

Lower levels of DHA are associated with cognitive decline in healthy elderly people and in Alzheimer's patients while higher DHA levels help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

The study's results are encouraging for all those looking for a way to preserve their memory and boost their overall cognitive health.
(Alzheimer's and Dementia, 2010 ; 6(6) :456DOI :10.1016/j.jalz.2010.01.013)