Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#adult #attention-deficit-disorder-with-hyperactivity #child #cognition #dietary-supplements

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Cooper et al., 2015 | J Psychopharmacol | Meta Analysis

Citation

Cooper Ruth E, Tye Charlotte, ... Asherson Philip. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation and cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Psychopharmacol. 2015-Jul;29(7):753-63. doi:10.1177/0269881115587958

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) are promoted as cognitive enhancers with consumption recommended in the general population and those with neurocognitive deficits such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, evidence from randomised placebo-controlled trials is inconclusive. AIMS: This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effect of n-3 PUFA supplementation on cognition in healthy populations and those with ADHD and related disorders (RDs). METHODS: Databases were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in adults and school-aged children (who were healthy and typically developing (TD) or had ADHD or a related-neurodevelopmental disorder (ADHD+RD) which assessed the effects of n-3 PUFA on cognition. RESULTS: In the 24 included studies n-3 PUFA supplementation, in the whole sample and the TD and ADHD+RD subgroup, did not show improvements in any of the cognitive performance measures. In those with low n-3 PUFA status, supplementation improved short-term memory. CONCLUSIONS: There is marginal evidence that n-3 PUFA supplementation effects cognition in those who are n-3 PUFA deficient. However, there is no evidence of an effect in the general population or those with neurodevelopmental disorders. This has important implications given the widespread advertisement and consumption of n-3 PUFA; claims of cognitive benefit should be narrowed.

Key Findings

In the 24 included studies n-3 PUFA supplementation, in the whole sample and the TD and ADHD+RD subgroup, did not show improvements in any of the cognitive performance measures. In those with low n-3 PUFA status, supplementation improved short-term memory.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population healthy populations
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition cognitive

MeSH Terms

  • Adult
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
  • Child
  • Cognition
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Humans
  • Memory, Short-Term
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: omega-3

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09