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Study design

This systematic review and network meta-analysis pooled 29 randomized trials with 2,000 participants who had Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment. The authors searched four databases through July 2024. Network comparisons combine direct and indirect evidence, and the included products, trials and cognitive measures varied.

Findings

The abstract reports that several interventions ranked favorably against placebo on Mini-Mental State Examination scores, including plant extracts, probiotics with selenium, 100-mg phosphatidylserine, spirulina and vitamin B; it also reports a positive estimate for Cosmos caudatus. No supplement significantly improved the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive Subscale. The difference between these cognitive scales is central to interpreting the review: the results are mixed signals, not a settled treatment effect.

Limitations and disclosures

The search ended two years before publication, so later trials were not included. Small heterogeneous studies and indirect comparisons make rankings uncertain; full certainty and risk-of-bias details were not available in the abstract. The abstract did not expose complete funding or competing-interest disclosures. The review does not establish supplements as treatment or support replacing clinical care.

This sourced news summary and translation were prepared with AI assistance. Source links, the news date and research limitations are disclosed; this is not a claim of independent medical expert review. News production method.

Sources

Research news is not medical advice or a recommendation to use a substance. Read findings in the context of the study design, participants and limitations. Editorial standards.

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