DHA Improves Memory and Reaction time in Adults

Objective

DHA is known to be important for normal brain function and therefore it is reported that in persons with low dietary consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), the supplementation with DHA might improve cognitive function.

This study was performed to evaluate the effects of DHA supplementation on cognitive performance in healthy young adults.

End points measured

Cognitive performance (memory, attention and reaction time {RT}) by using computerized cognitive test battery

Results

The Reaction time (RT) of episodic and working memory significantly improved in DHA therapy in comparison to placebo (mean difference (95% CI): -0.18 SD (-0.33, -0.03 SD) (p=0.02) vs. -0.36 SD (-0.58, -0.14 SD) (p=0.002), respectively).

DHA improved the episodic memory in women (0.28 SD {0.008, 0.48 SD}; p=0.006).

The RT of working memory in men also improved [-0.60 SD (-0.95, -0.25 SD);p=0.001].

Conclusion

DHA supplementation significantly improved memory and reaction time in healthy young adults whose diets were low in DHA.

Source

Stonehouse W, Conlon CA, Podd J, et al. DHA supplementation improved both memory and reaction time in healthy young adults: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013;97(5):1134-1143.