Twelve Weeks of Additional Fish Intake Improves the Cognition of Cognitively Intact, Resource-Limited Elderly People: A Randomized Control Trial
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Dietary omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) may reduce the risk of dementia. Many studies have investigated PUFA supplementation in high-income countries, yet food-based randomized control trials using omega 3 PUFA rich fish in lower to middle income countries, are lacking.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect on cognition of adding either fish or non-fish foods for twelve weeks to an enhanced diet of cognitively intact, independently living, resource-limited elderly people.
DESIGN: Randomized control trial (National Health Trial register: DOH-27-061-6026).
SETTING: Retirement center in urban South Africa.
PARTICIPANTS: Fifty-seven (74% female, mean age: 72±7 years) elderly participants with cognitive function exceeding 22 on the Mini Mental State Examination were randomized into an intervention (n=31) and control (n=26) group.
INTERVENTION: The usual diets of both groups were enhanced with context-appropriate foods to mimic elements of the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet. The intervention group additionally received canned pilchards and fish spread every week amounting to an additional (theoretical) intake of 2.2g omega 3 PUFA daily. The control group received canned meatballs and texturized soya every week.
MEASUREMENTS: Cognition was measured twice before and once after the intervention phase using the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI). Adherence was assessed by a study-specific food frequency…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 31 participants or records.
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