Food supplement use and the prevention of cognitive decline in old people.

Oxidative stress and low-grade inflammation stimulate the ageing brain to adapt to accumulated damage. Neuroprotection relies on intrinsic/extrinsic defences to which specific nutrients may contribute. Food intakes are often reinforced with supplements containing high concentrations of nutrients, in amounts that equal or exceed recommended daily allowances. This practice is often followed by those who have least need to reinforce their diets in this way. This brief review examines some psychosocial aspects of food supplement use in old age and examines the scant evidence of its efficacy In promoting the retention of cognitive function in old age. Presently, there is insufficient evidence that the use of food supplements should be recommended to prevent cognitive decline in old age.