Study Finds Omega-3 Fatty Acid DHA May Protect Against Fat-Induced Brain Inflammation and Memory Impairment

New research from Ohio State University has revealed how a high-fat diet can affect brain cells, highlighting how a form of omega-3 fatty acid could potentially protect memory. A number of studies have previously shown that there is a connection between high-fat diets and memory issues in ageing rats. This latest report, however, explores in more detail the specific type of brain cells affected by a high-fat diet. Microglia cells, which promote inflammation, and hippocampal neurons, which play a part in learning and memory, were the focus of the study. Reseachers found that using the omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), commonly found in fish, protected against inflammation in the cells. Additionally, it was found that a high-fat diet disrupted specific brain cell signalling, which impacted the creation of new memories. While this research offers a fuller picture of how high-fat diets can affect memory, more work is needed before dietary changes can be recommended.