8 Supplements and Vitamins for Memory—What Works and What Doesn’t

Omega-3 fatty acids

The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have shown promising brain-building effects. Some studies have suggested people who eat fatty fish high in omega-3s have more gray matter in their brains to keep their minds strong. The thing is, the benefits haven’t held up in large, controlled experiments, says Arjun Masurkar, MD, PhD, a neurologist at NYU Langone’s Center for Cognitive Neurology. For instance, an NIH-backed study of more than 3,500 older adults found that taking omega-3 fatty acids for five years had no effect on cognitive function. Still, there likely isn’t harm in trying. “Omega-3s may have other health benefits that might be indirectly related to the brain, like on the heart. The heart and brain are connected,” says Dr. Masurkar. No need to stop them if you and your doctor have already decided they might be beneficial, just don’t expect a memory miracle. Don’t miss these other secrets vitamin manufacturers don’t want you to know.

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