According to a news release from The University of Iowa, omega-3 fatty acids may not help thinking skills after all. The researchers note that omega-3s are located in fish like salmon and in nuts.

“There has been a lot of interest in omega-3s as a way to prevent or delay cognitive decline, but unfortunately our study did not find a protective effect in older women. In addition, most randomized trials of omega-3 supplements have not found an effect,” said Eric Ammann, a doctoral student in the University of Iowa College of Public Health Department of Epidemiology.

“However, we do not recommend that people change their diet based on these results,” Ammann added. “Researchers continue to study the relationship between omega-3s and the health of the heart, blood vessels, and brain. We know that fish and nuts can be healthy alternatives to red meat and full-fat dairy products, which are high in saturated fats.”

The findings were based on data from more than 2,000 women age 65 to 80 who participated in the Women’s Health Initiative clinical trials of hormone therapy. The participants were asked to complete yearly tests of thinking and memory skills for an average of six years. Blood tests were obtained to determine the quantity of omega-3s in the women’s blood before the beginning of the study.

The researchers discovered no variation between the participants with high and low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood at the time of the initial memory tests. There was also no variation between the two groups in how quickly their thinking abated over time.

According to WebMD, there are a number of other potential health benefits to consuming omega-3s. For example, research reveals strong evidence that the omega-3s EPA and DHA can help decrease triglycerides and blood pressure. Also, there is research revealing that omega-3 fatty acids can help with rheumatoid arthritis and depression.

The study’s findings are described in greater detail in the journal Neurology.

What do you think of the study’s findings? Share your thoughts in the comments section.