Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

DBPCT Effects of Omega-3 FA on Memory and Cognition in Peri- and Menopausal Women

This research study wants to find out if taking omega-3 supplements daily can make a difference to memory and thinking skills in women aged 40-60. These women will be experiencing perimenopause (the time leading up to menopause) or menopause itself. The study will also explore if omega-3 has any impact on common menopausal symptoms, stress levels, and how well women sleep. Researchers will compare those taking omega-3 to a group taking a 'dummy pill' (placebo) to see if there are any clear improvements in memory and brain function, or other areas like sleep and stress, over 12 weeks. The aim is to understand if this supplement could be helpful during this life stage.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

St. Mary's University, Twickenham

Enrolment target

Start

25 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

01 Oct 2026

Menopause

What is this study about?

Many women notice changes in their memory and how they think as they go through perimenopause and menopause. This study is designed to explore whether a daily omega-3 supplement could help with these changes. Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats found in some foods, and this particular study is using omega-3 from algae, which is a plant-based source. The main goal is to see if taking these supplements improves memory and other brain functions.

The researchers also want to understand if omega-3 might help with other common experiences during menopause, such as menopausal symptoms, feelings of stress, and even how well women sleep. By comparing women who take omega-3 with those who take a 'dummy pill' (placebo), the study aims to get clear answers. This type of study, where neither the participant nor the researchers know who is getting the real supplement, is a good way to ensure the results are fair and accurate.

Ultimately, this research hopes to provide valuable information for women in their perimenopausal and menopausal years. If omega-3 is found to be helpful, it could offer a simple way to support brain health and overall well-being during this important life stage. It's about finding out if this specific supplement can make a real, measurable difference.

Key takeaways

This study investigates if omega-3 from algae helps memory and thinking in perimenopausal/menopausal women.
It also checks effects on menopausal symptoms, stress, and sleep.
Participation involves taking a daily pill for 12 weeks and completing online assessments.
You won't know if you're taking omega-3 or a dummy pill (placebo).
Eligibility includes women aged 40-60, not on HRT, and not regularly taking omega-3.
All activities are done online from your home.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be a woman aged between 40 and 60 years old and currently going through perimenopause or menopause. You also need to have a reliable internet connection and a device like a computer or tablet to fill in online forms and do some thinking tests.

There are some reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you have certain diagnosed mental health conditions like severe depression or a neurological condition, or if you're already taking omega-3 supplements regularly or eating lots of oily fish. You also can't participate if you're using Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), have serious dietary restrictions, or have had a stroke, heart disease, or diabetes, as these can affect thinking skills. Finally, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, you won't be able to join this study.

It's important to be able to understand and speak English well enough to complete the thinking tests accurately. You also need to be able to commit to taking a daily pill (either omega-3 or the dummy pill) for 12 weeks, and complete all the tests and questionnaires at the beginning and end of the study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman aged 40 to 60 years old?
Are you currently going through perimenopause or menopause?
Do you have a reliable internet connection and a device (computer/tablet) for online tasks?
Are you NOT currently taking Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?
Are you NOT regularly taking omega-3 supplements or eating oily fish more than once a week?
Do you feel confident completing online memory tests and questionnaires in English?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you'll be asked to take a pill every day for 12 weeks. This pill will either be an omega-3 supplement or a 'dummy pill' (placebo), but you won't know which one you're taking, and neither will the researchers. Before you start taking the pills, and again after 12 weeks, you'll complete some online questionnaires about your memory, mood, stress, and sleep. You'll also do some online tests designed to check your memory and thinking skills.

There are no in-person visits required for this study. All questionnaires and tests will be done online from your own home. The total duration of your active participation, including the pill-taking and completing all assessments, will be 12 weeks.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a study like this might offer some potential benefits, such as contributing to scientific knowledge about women's health and omega-3. If you happen to be in the group taking the omega-3 supplement, there's a chance it could help with your memory, thinking, or menopausal symptoms, although this is what the study aims to find out. As with any supplement, there's a small chance of mild side effects, but omega-3 is generally considered safe. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

St Mary's University
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause when your body starts to change. Menopause is when your periods stop completely for 12 months, usually around age 45-55.

What is omega-3?

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats, often found in oily fish. This study uses a plant-based omega-3 from algae. They are thought to be good for your brain and overall health.

What is a 'dummy pill' (placebo)?

A 'dummy pill' or placebo looks exactly like the real supplement but doesn't contain any active ingredients. It's used in studies to make sure any effects seen are truly due to the active treatment.

Do I have to visit a clinic?

No, all parts of this study, including questionnaires and memory tests, are done online from your home. You won't need to visit a clinic or research centre.

How long will I be involved in the study?

If you take part, you'll be involved for a total of 12 weeks. This includes taking a daily pill and completing assessments at the beginning and end of this period.