Health functional food ingredient

Omega-3 (EPA and DHA) review — memory claims and research results

Also known as: omega-3, EPA, DHA, fish oil

At a glanceKorea's MFDS says EPA and DHA may help memory at 0.9–2 g a day, but trials show no protection against cognitive decline in healthy older adults.

What it is

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are omega-3 fatty acids abundant in oily fish. DHA is one of the main fatty acids in the membranes of brain cells, which is why it has been studied so much for brain health.

What the MFDS recognizes

Korea’s official notice recognizes four functions for EPA and DHA oils. Memory improvement applies to a combined EPA and DHA intake of 0.9–2 g a day, a different amount from the levels set for blood triglycerides and circulation (0.5–2 g) or dry eyes (0.6–2.24 g).

What studies show

A 2012 Cochrane systematic review pooled randomized controlled trials in cognitively healthy older adults and found no difference in cognitive function between people taking omega-3 supplements and those taking placebo. In other words, adding supplements for healthy older adults has not been shown to prevent cognitive decline.

Bottom line

The memory claim for omega-3 applies within the recognized intake, and there is not yet evidence that it prevents dementia or cognitive decline. People on medication should follow the official caution and speak with a professional first.

This review does not recommend any product. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition, talk to a doctor or pharmacist first.