[Contribution of omega-3 fatty acids for memory and cognitive function].

INTRODUCTION: A decline in memory and cognitive function is considered to be a normal consequence of aging. Polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids are increasingly proposed as dietary supplements with the ability to reduce the risk of cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). AIM: To study the effect of omega-3 on cognitive decline through the review of recent observational, interventional, and experimental studies. METHODS: We conducted a Pubmed, Medline, Cochrane and Embase search for epidemiological and clinical studies in the international literature using combinations of the following keywords: "Alzheimer's disease", "mild cognitive impairment", "cognitive function", "dietary factors", "omega-3 fatty acids", "EPA and DHA". CONCLUSIONS: Studies have shown the protective role of omega-3 fatty acids in mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and the risk and progression of Alzheimer's disease in the elderly. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanism of action of omega-3 fatty acids on cognition. Doses, composition of EPA and DHA capsules and time of supplementation should be explored.