Omega-3 deficiency increases Alzheimer's risk in women

Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as "brain fat," are known for their crucial role in the structure and function of our brain cells. A recent study provides compelling evidence that a deficiency in these valuable fats may be a significant factor in the development of Alzheimer's disease, particularly in women.

Researchers who examined the blood lipids of more than 800 people found that women with Alzheimer's disease had significantly lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood compared to healthy women. The deficiency was particularly pronounced in the marine omega-3 types called EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

The research focuses on EPA and DHA, which are directly linked to brain health, rather than ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), the type of omega-3 found in plant sources like flaxseed. Our bodies' ability to convert ALA into these valuable fats is quite limited.

Why are women at greater risk?

One of the most striking findings of the study was why this apparent deficiency was observed only in women. The researchers suspect that the female sex hormone estrogen is responsible.

Estrogen is a hormone that promotes the absorption of omega-3 fatty acids into the brain. A drop in estrogen levels after menopause can lead to the brain not being able to absorb enough of these vital fats.

Estrogen also regulates cholesterol balance by increasing "good" HDL cholesterol. A decrease in this hormonal support can lead to an unfavorable cholesterol profile, which is a risk factor for Alzheimer's.

Is Omega-3 supplementation the solution?

So, do these findings mean we should immediately start using omega-3 supplements to reduce our risk of Alzheimer's? The study authors emphasize the need for caution.

They emphasize that this study currently demonstrates a strong correlation, not a cause-and-effect relationship. Clinical studies that will definitively prove whether EPA and DHA supplements protect against Alzheimer's have not yet been completed.

Still, this research strongly suggests that Alzheimer's disease may develop through different mechanisms in men and women, and that marine omega-3s are a promising component of disease prevention, particularly for women.