Fish meals better for brain than supplements: survey

Above: A man cooks sardines during a celebration for Lisbon's patron Saint Antonio in the Alfama neighbourhood June 12, 2008.

REUTERS/Nacho Doce
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Looking to boost your memory and concentration? You're better off eating oily fish twice a week than popping expensive herbal pills or fish oil supplements, according to a consumer survey.

Australian consumer group Choice tested several supplements and found that two weekly servings of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as sardines and salmon, can boost brain function as much as or more than pills containing ginkgo biloba, brahmi and fish oil.

Fish oil supplements were also found to contain less of the maximum daily dietary target of omega-3.

"Supplements or herbal products are not the smart option. But eating more fish certainly is," Choice spokesman Christopher Zinn said in a statement.

The report said Australians spend almost A$1 million ($930,200) a year on ginkgo biloba supplements, which are sold alongside claims they aid "mental alertness" and "enhance memory and concentration".

But the review said evidence was mixed and "there is little to recommend its use". Good-quality clinical trials for brahmi were also mixed and not convincing, Choice added.

But with research showing Australians do not eat enough seafood to get sufficient omega-3, Choice said fish oil supplements could be one answer.

"There are other ways to keep your brain fit and your memory sharp as you get older," Zinn said.

"Eating well, staying socially connected and exercising the mind and body all count."

Source: Reuters