Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Specifically, DHA) Improve Working Memory
mbg Supplement Editor
mbg Supplement Editor
Morgan Chamberlain is a supplement editor at mindbodygreen. She graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science degree in magazine journalism and a minor in nutrition.
Image by Alba Vitta / Stocksy
November 5, 2023
How omega-3s bolster cognitive function
In the double-blind, placebo-controlled study, cognitively healthy women between the ages of 50 and 75 that took a high-potency dose (2.2 grams) of long-chain polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids (i.e., EPA and DHA) in supplement form for 26 weeks demonstrated increased omega-3 index levels (i.e., the biomarker for omega-3 status in your body) and significantly enhanced memory recall compared to the control group.*
In other words, taking a high-potency supplement with marine omega-3s EPA and DHA can help maintain cognitive function and support memory as we age.* According to a recent Cureus review, these brain-critical nutrients support other aspects of cognition as well—including learning, cerebral blood flow, and even mood support.*
And if overall cognitive well-being and brain longevity aren’t enough to convince you to add a fish oil supplement to your wellness regimen, we’re happy to report that omega-3 fatty acids can help you age gracefully in other ways, too.
How omega-3s support longevity
Evidence shows that omega-3s help us live a long, healthy life by supporting not only memory and cognitive function but vision longevity, joint mobility, heart health, antioxidant activity, and social well-being as well.*
Simply put, a high-quality fish oil supplement is a no-brainer (pun intended!). That said, not all omega-3 supplements are created equal—look for a sustainably sourced fish oil with a clinically meaningful dose of marine omega-3s (like mindbodygreen’s omega-3 potency+, which serves up an impressive 1.5 grams—i.e., 1,500 milligrams—of EPA and DHA per serving) to reap the myriad longevity benefits these healthy fats have to offer.*
The takeaway
High-potency omega-3 supplementation can help women over 50 maintain cognitive function, enhance memory recall, and support overall brain longevity.* What’s more, omega-3s have been shown to help bolster other facets of health as we age (e.g., vision, joint mobility, heart health, antioxidant status).*
Consider adding a high-quality fish oil supplement—like mbg’s omega-3 potency+—to your daily routine to ensure you’re giving your brain and body the healthy fats they need to thrive (today and down the road).*
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications, consult with your doctor before starting a supplement routine. It is always optimal to consult with a health care provider when considering what supplements are right for you.
