Does palmitoylethanolamide help reduce cognitive decline?

Cognitive decline is associated with neurodegenerative processes involving oxidative damage, inflammation, and dysfunction of the microvascular system. Research suggests that in response to these processes, the body increases the synthesis of lipid molecules in an effort to restore balance and prevent further damage.

Among these molecules, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) stands out due to its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. A 2022 meta-analysis suggests that PEA:

• Improves cognitive function (memory and learning) by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory markers.
• Promotes neurogenesis and neuronal survival.
• Regulates the activation of astrocytes and mast cells.

As there is currently no effective treatment for neurocognitive disorders and available approaches are primarily symptomatic, palmitoylethanolamide represents a promising therapeutic option for:

• preventing neurodegeneration,
• supporting endogenous repair processes during disease progression.