Yet another study has found fish oil and antioxidants might be beneficial for at least some people facing Alzheimer's disease.

The research, published in the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology FASEB Journal, involved a dozen people with mild clinical impairment, such as those in the very early stages of the disease.

Investigators from the University of California found those taking fish oil supplements and antioxidants over a 17-month period had reduced inflammation in the brain and lower levels of amyloid-beta protein plaques, tied to dementia.

"Prevention of mild cognitive impairment progression is one of the best hopes" in preventing Alzheimer’s, said lead researcher Milan Fiala, M.D. "In addition to physical and mental exercises recommended by experts, this study suggests that nutrition is equally important."

"We've known for a long time that omega-3 fatty acids and some antioxidants can be beneficial to people with a wide range of health problems, as well as protective for healthy people," said
Gerald Weissmann, M.D., Editor-in-Chief of The FASEB Journal, noted the research builds on past studies that have shown omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can offer protection against a wide range of health conditions, from heart disease to arthritis to mental health problems.

"Now, we know that the effects of these supplements may extend to Alzheimer's disease as well,” he said. “Although these supplements are considered to be generally safe and are very easy to obtain, full-scale clinical trials are necessary to verify the findings of this research and to identify who might benefit the most."