For anyone who has had someone close to them suffer with Alzheimer’s disease, you know how painful it can be for both the patient and their friends or family.  Alzheimer’s disease can be genetic, but whether it runs in your family or not it’s a good idea to take every measure to prevent the disease.One such study was published on May 2. The research, published in the American Journal of Neurology, found that eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help guard against the onset and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.MORE FROM MNN: Omega-3 Fatty Acids For VegetariansFor the study, researchers followed roughly 1,200 dementia-free patients over the age of 65, tracking their dietary habits and taking blood samples to test for a protein called beta-amyloid, a protein that precious research has linked to memory problems and Alzheimer’s disease.They found that those subjects who consumed omega-3s had significantly lower levels of amyloid in their blood, which could be linked to a lower risk for Alzheimer’s. And the effects were compounding.Each additional gram of omega-3 fatty acid that a study subject consumed decreased amyloid levels by 20 to 30 percent.MORE FROM MNN: Music Reawakens Alzheimer’s PatientsThe study also looked at other nutrients, such as beta-carotene, vitamin D, vitamin B12, vitamin E, omega-6, saturated fatty acids, and non-unsaturated fatty acids, but only omega-3s were associated with lower amyloid levels.Which foods are good sources of omega-3s? Fish like mackerel, trout, herring, tuna or salmon, and kale, tofu, soybeans, walnuts and flaxseed.MORE FROM MNN: 11 Healthiest Foods (Including Fish!)

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