Saturated Fats Get a Memory Makeover

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted March 4, 2024

Think back to the last time you craved something rich and delicious—maybe it was a juicy burger, a sharp piece of cheese, or even just a creamy spoonful of butter.

Whatever it was, chances are it contained saturated fat.

We’ve been conditioned to see saturated fats as the enemy—something to be avoided at all costs if we want to lose weight, prevent a heart attack, and improve our health.

But what if everything we thought we knew about saturated fats was WRONG?

Emerging research suggests that, far from being a THREATINING boogeyman, these much-maligned fats may actually BOOST our memory and cognitive function.

Scientists at the University of Queensland uncovered evidence that saturated fatty acids play an ESSENTIAL role in memory consolidation.

A study published in the journal Neurobiology of Learning and Memory found that saturated fats are vital for the brain’s ability to store new memories properly.

Here’s how it works…

An enzyme called Phospholipase A1 (PLA1) interacts with another protein called STXBP1 in the junction between brain cells (called a synapse). Together, the proteins trigger the production of saturated fatty acids.

The scientists did animal experiments blocking the production of PLA1 and STXBP1 and found that it impeded the formation of new memories.

This not only confirms the importance of saturated fats in the memory-making process, it’s also not entirely surprising. After all, around 60 percent of your brain is MADE of fat.

Next, scientists need to figure out precisely HOW the saturated fats are processed in the brain cells to aid in forming new memories.

We ALREADY know saturated fats help build neural connections and maintain the structural integrity of cell membranes. Plus, diets low in saturated fats are linked to higher risks of dementia and diminished memory capacity later in life.

So, while we once saw saturated fats as the villain in the nutritional world, getting enough may actually be the key to creating and accessing our richest memories. The burgers, butter, and cheese we crave are more than just comfort food; they provide the raw ingredients for memories themselves.

So, next time you’re tempted by something rich and fatty, go ahead and indulge guilt-free.

Your brain and memory will thank you!

P.S. Uncover the REAL “Skinny” on saturated fat and your heart health. (Spoiler alert… fat’s NOT the enemy.)

Source:

“The DDHD2-STXBP1 interaction mediates long-term memory via generation of saturated free fatty acids,” EMBOJ (2024), doi. org /10.1038 /s44318-024-00030-7

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND