Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis. (July 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cooper, Ruth E; Tye, Charlotte; Kuntsi, Jonna; Vassos, Evangelos; Asherson, Philip
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychopharmacology. Volume 29:Number 7(2015:Jul.)
• Page Start: 753
• Page End: 763
• Publication Date: 2015-07
• Subjects: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- cognition -- omega-3 -- randomised controlled trial -- meta-analysis; Psychopharmacology -- Periodicals; 615.78
• DOI: 10.1177/0269881115587958
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-8811

Abstract

Background: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ( n -3 PUFAs) are promoted as cognitive enhancers with consumption recommended in the general population and those with neurocognitive deficits such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, evidence from randomised placebo-controlled trials is inconclusive. Aims: This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effect of n -3 PUFA supplementation on cognition in healthy populations and those with ADHD and related disorders (RDs). Methods: Databases were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in adults and school-aged children (who were healthy and typically developing (TD) or had ADHD or a related-neurodevelopmental disorder (ADHD+RD) which assessed the effects of n -3 PUFA on cognition. Results: In the 24 included studies n -3 PUFA supplementation, in the whole sample and the TD and ADHD+RD subgroup, did not show improvements in any of the cognitive performance measures. In those with low n -3 PUFA status, supplementation improved short-term memory. Conclusions: There is marginal evidence that n -3 PUFA supplementation effects cognition in those who are n -3 PUFA deficient. However, there is no evidence of an effect in the general population or those with neurodevelopmental disorders. This has important implications given the widespread advertisement and consumption of n -3 PUFA; claims of cognitive benefit should be narrowed.