Supplement findings differed across memory and other thinking abilities
A network review reported improvements in selected cognitive tests, with some supplement rankings changing when study duration and sample size were considered.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The analysis reported improvements in selected cognitive abilities with particular supplements or combinations, rather than a general benefit across all aspects of thinking. Some rankings changed with study duration and sample size. The abstract does not establish a best supplement, show how noticeable the changes were, or confirm lasting clinical benefit.
The abstract omits participant counts, comparison groups and numerical effect estimates. Rankings for some interventions supported by small samples were sensitive to study duration and size, limiting confidence in their apparent ordering.
Specific abilities, specific findings
Melatonin alone and a combination containing DHA, EPA, vitamin E, tryptophan and melatonin were reported to improve overall cognitive scores. DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, alone was linked to improvements in memory and processing speed.
Blood tests answer another question
Some B vitamins changed blood markers, measured separately from cognitive performance. Those biochemical findings do not establish improvements in thinking or everyday function. The authors called for longer trials to clarify lasting clinical effects.
The original publication
Nutritional supplements and cognition in healthy aging and mild cognitive impairment patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.
Liu X, Yang C, Wang X et al.
J Prev Alzheimers Dis · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41764841
- Record checked
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