It is found that the depressive symptoms may augment the risk of progression from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia. Consumption of n-3 PUFA may relieve both depression and cognitive decline.
The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of omega-3 PUFAs on depressive symptoms, quality of life (QOL) and cognition in elderly people with MCI.
Double-blind, randomized controlled trial.
50 people aged >65 years with MCI were enrolled into the study.
6 months
| Groups | Intervention | Number of subjects (n=) |
|---|---|---|
| Rich in DHA | 1.55g DHA + 0.40 g EPA/day | 18 |
| Rich in EPA | 1.67g EPA + 0.16g DHA/day | 17 |
| Linoleic Acid(LA) | 2.2 LA g/day | 15 |
The geriatric depression scores (GDS) were significantly improved in both DHA and EPA group in comparison to LA (p=0.01, and p=0.04).
The verbal fluency (Initial letter frequency) improved in the DHA group (p=0.04).
The self-reported physical health was positively associated with increased DHA levels.
Furthermore, the increased levels of DHA plus EPA were correlated with improved levels of GDS scores (r=0.398, p=0.02).
Omega-3 PUFAs supplement significantly reduced the depressive symptoms and altered the risk of progression to dementia.
Sinn N, Milte CM, Street SJ, et al. Effects of n-3 fatty acids, EPA vs. DHA, on depressive symptoms, quality of life, memory and executive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a 6-month randomized controlled trial.Br J Nutr. 2012;107(11) : 1682169
