Do Memory Supplements Work?

According to a recent review of research studies by Consumer Reports, the answer is not likely.

The 3 most prescribed are Ginko, B vitamins and fish oil. The latter helps stave-off memory decline, but only if it comes from eating omega-3-rich fish (like salmon & tuna), not pills or capsules. The others do not help.

Do Memory Pills Work?

Memory loss is a well-known consequence of dementia but there is, as of yet, no “magic” pill.

For Alzheimer’s, Aricept is the best available but it only slows symptoms (including memory loss) for 6 months or so.

Consumer Reports is particularly skeptical of other remedies in pill form such as fish oil, B vitamins and gingko extract. It contends that extensive studies do not show benefits from these popular supplements.

However, eating omega-3 rich fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, has been shown by some studies to be helpful with memory.