High intake of dietary saturated fats and triglycerides linked to poorer memory performance: Study

The relationship between triglyceride levels and memory performance was modified by the ratio of saturated fat to total caloric intake. At higher levels of saturated fat intake, higher triglycerides were associated with worse memory performance. However, at lower levels of saturated fat intake, the association between triglycerides and memory performance was not statistically significant. Better adherence to USDA dietary guidelines, reflected by higher Healthy Eating Index 2020 scores, was associated with better memory performance (β = 0.018, p < 0.002), regardless of triglyceride levels. Diet quality, as indicated by adherence to dietary guidelines, supports cognitive health.

Elevated triglycerides combined with a high ratio of dietary saturated fat intake were associated with poorer memory performance. Precision nutrition strategies aimed at reducing saturated fat intake in midlife adults with elevated triglyceride levels may help mitigate memory-related cognitive decline and enhance brain health.

Reference:

Gallagher I, Li Y, Youn C, Tanaka H, Davis JN, Haley AP. Dietary Saturated Fat Intake Moderates the Effect of Plasma Triglycerides on Memory Performance in Middle-Aged Adults. Nutrition and Dietary Supplements. 2025;17:29-41 https://doi.org/10.2147/NDS.S496926