Research conducted by King’s College and Queen Mary University in London reveals that omega fatty acids may play a protective role for women against Alzheimer’s disease, explaining why the condition is more frequently diagnosed in women.
According to findings published in the journal Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia, women diagnosed with Alzheimer’s tend to have lower levels of unsaturated fats, particularly beneficial omega fatty acids, than those who do not have the disease.
In a press release, the researchers shared that they examined brain inflammation and damage through plasma samples from 841 Alzheimer’s patients.
Using mass spectrometry, the team identified 700 types of lipid molecules in the blood. The study highlights a notable increase in “unhealthy” saturated lipids among female Alzheimer’s patients.
“The omega fatty acids were notably reduced in Alzheimer’s patients,” the research indicates.
This research sheds light on the possible connection between Alzheimer’s disease and fatty acid levels, although further studies and clinical trials are needed to solidify these findings.
Dr. Asger Wretlind, who led the study, mentioned that the discrepancy in Alzheimer’s prevalence between genders has been recognized. “While we need more research, we’ve found distinct lipid differences between men and women, emphasizing the significance of omega fatty acids in blood—an area that hasn’t been extensively explored,” he added.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly two-thirds of the 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s are women, which translates to about 4.2 million affected women over 65.
Dr. Christina Legido Quigley, a systems medicine expert, advised that women should consider including omega fatty acids in their diets—whether through fatty fish or supplements—because of their role in supporting brain health.
Food sources rich in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts, per the CDC.
Dr. Julia Dudley, head of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, noted that the study suggests women with Alzheimer’s have lower unsaturated fat levels than their male counterparts. She stressed the need for additional research to comprehend the underlying mechanisms of these differences and the potential impact of lifestyle, including diet.
Understanding how Alzheimer’s affects women compared to men may lead to more tailored treatments and health advice in the future, according to Dudley. “We’re dedicated to funding research that brings us closer to effective treatments,” she concluded.
