Omega fats linked to women's dementia risk

A large study finds omega fatty acids may relate to healthier blood lipids in women with Alzheimer's, but experts urge more research before guidance.

Omega fats reveal a sex specific link to Alzheimer's

British researchers from King’s College London and Queen Mary University of London analyzed blood samples from 841 participants across Alzheimer's disease, mild cognitive impairment, and cognitively healthy controls. After testing about 700 lipids, they found women with Alzheimer's had significantly more unhealthy saturated fats and fewer healthy fats linked with omega fatty acids, a pattern not seen in men. The study is described as the first to connect sex specific lipid patterns with the disease in this way.

The findings raise the possibility of a gender gap in dementia biology, with lipid metabolism potentially helping explain why more women are diagnosed after age 80. Yet the results are not proof of causation and could reflect aging, menopause, education, or other risk factors. If confirmed, these patterns might inform dietary guidance, but it is too early to claim that omega fatty acids prevent dementia. Public messaging should be cautious to avoid hype around supplements while scientists pursue more diverse studies and robust trials.

Highlights

Further work will tell if diet shifts can meaningfully affect brain health in women.