A common supplement costing less than 10p per pill could help protect women from Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research by British scientists.
The study, led by experts from King’s College London and Queen Mary University London, examined the role of omega fatty acids—found naturally in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, or available as dietary supplements—in reducing dementia risk.
In what is being hailed as a first-of-its-kind investigation, researchers analysed fat molecules in the body, known as lipids, to understand their link with memory decline. They discovered that women with Alzheimer’s had significantly fewer healthy unsaturated fats, including omega-rich lipids, compared to women without the condition. Interestingly, this effect was not observed in men.
Dr Cristiana Legido-Quigley, senior author of the study and an expert in brain disease at King’s College London, explained:
“Women are disproportionately impacted by Alzheimer’s and are more often diagnosed with the disease than men after the age of 80. One of the most surprising findings was that, while men showed no clear difference in their lipid profiles, women with cognitive impairment had far fewer healthy lipids and higher levels of unhealthy saturated fats.”
The team analysed blood plasma samples from 841 participants, including those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, individuals with mild cognitive impairments, and cognitively healthy controls. Out of 700 individual lipids examined, a strong pattern emerged linking low omega lipid levels to Alzheimer’s in women.
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Dr Legido-Quigley said the findings highlight the importance of diet: “Our study suggests women should ensure they are getting enough omega fatty acids—either through consuming fatty fish or by taking supplements.”
Co-author Dr Asger Wretlind added:
“Although more research is needed, our results demonstrate for the first time clear biological differences between men and women in lipid profiles related to Alzheimer’s. It reinforces the role of omega fatty acids in protecting brain health.”
Experts caution that larger studies are still required to confirm whether supplements could directly prevent Alzheimer’s. However, the findings shed light on why women are more vulnerable to the condition—and point to a potentially simple, low-cost way to reduce risk.
