Don’t Forget! Fish Oil is Snake Oil!

Alrighty folks! It’s TRUTH TELLING TIME AGAIN!

This time, a two-year study has demonstrated that omega-3 fatty acids (also known as “fish oil”), is really snake oil.

That is to say, that the only benefit to taking it, is to the pocketbooks of those whom sell it!

The low-down follows.

May 11, 2010
No significant improvent in cognitive function in older adults after taking omega-3 fatty acids

Summary
Taking omega-3 fatty acids for 2 years did not appear to improve cognitive function in cognitively healthy adults in their seventies. However, “the lack of decline in the control arm and the relatively short intervention period may have limited our ability to detect any potential beneficial effect of fish oil.”

Basis for Study
The authors hypothesized that taking omega-3 fatty acids would enhance cognitive function in cognitively healthy older adults.

Detailed Summary of Study
867 adults age 70 to 79 (mean age 75, 55% men) were randomized to receive omega-3 long-chain fatty acids (200 mg EPA and 500 mg DHA) or placebo for 2 years. Cognitive function was assessed at the beginning and end of the study using the California Verbal Learning Test.

Results/Body
Cognitive function did not change in either group.

Sources & Other Links
Dangour AD, Allen E, Elbourne D, Fasey N, Fletcher AE, Hardy P, Holder GE, Knight R, Letley L, Richards M, Uauy R. Effect of 2-y omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on cognitive function in older people: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial.

Am J Clin Nutr. 2010 Apr 21. [Epub ahead of print]

Outline
Summary
Basis for Study
Detailed Summary of Study
Results/Body
Sources & Other Links