A recent scientific study has shown that common "omega-3" supplements can accelerate the decline in cognitive abilities in older adults.
During the study, researchers analyzed the medical data of 819 elderly people, including 273 who had been taking Omega-3 supplements for long periods. Over five years, the cognitive performance and brain scan results of the study participants were assessed. Scientists found that people taking Omega-3 supplements experienced a faster decline in memory and thinking abilities according to several criteria that assess cognitive abilities.
These differences in the effect of the supplements on the participants were not attributed to genetic factors: both groups had equal numbers of carriers of the APOE ε4 gene, which is associated with the risk of Alzheimer's disease, and the participants did not show an increase in the accumulation of amyloid plaques or tau proteins, which are classic markers of neurodegeneration.
Instead, the researchers observed a decrease in glucose metabolism within the brain of those who consumed "omega-3", indicating a deterioration in neural connections and affecting cognitive abilities.
Scientists emphasize that their findings indicate a correlational relationship, not a causal one, but they raise serious questions about the prevailing belief in the absolute benefit of omega-3 supplements in protecting the brain.
