Omega-3 showdown: which DHA type reaches the brain best?

NCT ID NCT02168738

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests three different forms of DHA (an omega-3 fat) to see which one gets into the body and brain most effectively. Four healthy men aged 60–70 took a single dose of each form, with a four-month break in between. Researchers measured DHA levels in blood cells and plasma six hours after each dose to compare how well the body absorbs each type.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) in three forms: triglyceride, phosphatidylcholine, and acetylated lysophosphatidylcholine
What this could lead to
If successful, this could reveal which form of DHA is best absorbed and delivered to the brain, potentially guiding future supplements or treatments for brain health.
What could go wrong
This is a very small, early-stage study in just 4 healthy men, so results may not apply to the general population. It measures short-term blood levels, not actual brain health outcomes.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Centre de Recherche en Nutrition Humaine Rhône-Alpes, 165 chemin du Grand Revoyet,

    Pierre-Bénite, 69310, France

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