How dietary fatty acids affect brain function in older adults

Fatty Acid Modulation of Brain Function in Older Adults

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE · NIH-10991729

This study is looking at how different types of fats in your diet might affect brain function in older adults, specifically those aged 65-75, to see if changing what you eat can help improve thinking skills for people with mild cognitive issues or Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF VERMONT & ST AGRIC COLLEGE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10991729 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of dietary fatty acids on brain function in older adults, particularly focusing on how changes in the intake of palmitic and oleic acids can influence cognitive performance. The study will involve cognitively normal older adults aged 65-75, who will follow two different experimental diets after a low-fat control diet. By examining the acute effects of these dietary changes, the research aims to identify potential strategies to improve cognition in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive each diet for one week, allowing for a direct comparison of their effects on brain function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cognitively normal older adults aged 65-75, as well as those with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment or those under 65 years of age may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that enhance cognitive function in older adults, potentially delaying the onset of dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in improving cognition through dietary changes, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

BURLINGTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.