Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA) Status and Cognitive Function in Healthy Young Adults

The Relationship Between Serum PUFAs and Cognitive Function in Healthy Young Adults

To date, the relationship between omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) in cognitively intact individuals has only been examined in a limited number of studies; it is at present unknown whether supplementation with n-3 PUFAs can improve cognitive function and mood in this population. Further to this, it still remains to be established whether a relationship exists between peripheral fatty acid status-reflective of dietary n-3 PUFA intake-and cognitive function in this population. The current study therefore aims to address this issue by exploring the relationship between serum PUFAs and specific cognitive functions in a sample of healthy adults. To this end, participants will complete a range of cognitive tasks evaluating performance across the domains of attention, memory and executive function. Self-report mood assessments will be included as secondary measures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male/Female
• 18-35 years
• Healthy
• No herbal supplements/prescription medications (excl. contraceptive pill)
• Non smoker
• Native English speaker

Exclusion Criteria:

• BMI ≥ 30