The individual nutrients worked, but the biggest effect was seen in those given both omega-3 DHADHA is short for Docosahexaenoic Acid. It is an essential omega-3 fatty acid found in fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring, and is often… and folic acidWhat it does: Critical during pregnancy for the development of a baby’s brain and nerves. Also essential for brain and nerve function. Needed for utilising…. The combination produced a significant improvement in all three measures of IQ (full, verbal and performance IQ), more so than the individual nutrients, showing a clear benefit for those experiencing cognitive decline.
The researchers, from Tianjin Medical University and Hebei Medical University in China, also investigated the effects of the nutrients on mitochondria, the energy factories in cells, and found that those on the nutrients had less oxidative damage to mitochondrial DNA. “The cognitive benefits might act via DNA oxidative damage and mitochondrial function”, they report.
Reduced mitochondrial energy and increased oxidative stress on the mitochondria, may result in brain fog and and cognitive fatigue.
They conclude that “Interventions of folic acid (800mcg) combined with DHA (800 mg) daily orally for 12 months can improve cognitive function in older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment, and the combined intervention is superior to either intervention alone.”
Further Information
You can find brain support supplements including Omega3 and B Vitamins in the Brain Food Upgrade pack in the Mind Range at Holfordirect.com
References
Reference: Li M et al., Cognitive Benefits of Folic Acid, Docosahexaenoic Acid, and a Combination of Both Nutrients in Mild Cognitive Impairment: Possible Alterations through Mitochondrial Function and DNA Damage. Gerontology. 2024;70(9):940-949. doi: 10.1159/000540021. Epub 2024 Jul 17. PMID: 38952108.
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