 Researchers publishing in the European Journal of Nutrition have discovered that a combination of B vitamins and the omega-3 fatty acid DHA is linked to decreased cognitive decline. The researchers came to their conclusion after analyzing the results of the B-proof trial, a Dutch study conducted between 2008 and 2013. This study was initially geared towards understanding the effectiveness of folic acid and vitamin B12 supplements, but the researchers were able to obtain their omega-3 results by analyzing blood plasma samples taken at the time of the study. The researchers were able to collect the data they needed from nearly 200 people, approximately half of which were in the placebo group. This study focused on two specific omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. For each of these measurements, and for a combined measurement, the participants in each group were divided into three categories, low, middle, and high. The researchers describe the cognitive measurements conducted during the study as an extensive battery. As they included short-term memory tasks such as digit and word memorization, long-term memory tasks such as letter word recall, and detailed cognitive tests such as the trail-making test and the symbol-to-digit marking test. It also included the famous strupe-color word test, in which the word written represents a color different than the ink that it's written in. At the beginning of the study, the baseline cognitive ability of the participants in the low, middle, and high omega-3 fatty acid groups did not differ significantly. Vitamin B supplementation appeared to be slightly associated with higher overall scores on cognitive tests after two years, although the difference was not significant. However, the analysis showed that a combination of vitamin B12 supplements and high levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA was significantly correlated with cognitive health. The researchers then compared their results to those of other studies. One study, viticog, also showed a significant link between B vitamin supplements and omega-3 fatty acids in reducing cognitive decline and brain atrophy. A different study showed that a combination of low homocysteine, an amino acid that is broken down by B vitamins, and omega-3 supplementation is associated with reduced cognitive decline. These studies focused on people with cognitive impairment, while this new study focused on cognitively healthy adults. Pulling from other prior work, the researchers offer multiple biochemical explanations as to why DHA might be so important, such as ways in which B vitamin supplementation spurs the transfer of omega-3 fatty acids to the brain. However, as a post-hoc analysis, this study can only show correlation, not prove causation. As the researchers point out, a clinical study is required to prove that vitamin B12 and DHA interact to improve cognitive performance in healthy older adults. But will this change how you think about vitamin supplements and omega-3 fatty acids? Let us know in the comments. I'm Ryan O'Shea and we'll see you next time on Lifespan News.