
Omega-3 Supplements May Accelerate Cognitive Decline in Some Older Adults
A large observational study using ADNI data found that older adults taking omega-3 supplements (mostly fish oil) declined faster on cognitive tests (MMSE, ADAS-Cog13, CDR-SB) over about 5 years than matched nonusers. Brain imaging linked slower glucose metabolism in regions vulnerable to Alzheimer’s to this decline, with metabolism changes partly mediating the association. Because the study is observational and doses, product quality, adherence, and other factors weren’t fully tracked, causality can’t be proven and the findings may not generalize beyond a largely white, well-educated group. More research is needed, and people should consult a clinician before relying on omega-3 for cognitive protection.








