There are many factors that can influence the risk of developing dementia as we age, and one of these factors is cholesterol levels. Indeed, a study showed that variations in cholesterol levels could be a warning sign of dementia.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of fatty substance found in all animal cells. It is essential for many metabolic processes in the body, including the production of hormones, bile and vitamin D. Cholesterol is also necessary for building cell membranes. In other words, cholesterol is an absolutely necessary fat for our survival. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can be very harmful. In particular, research has shown that it can greatly harm heart health.
And recently, new research from researchers at Monash University in Australia showed that cholesterol may also be linked to the risk of developing dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Indeed, according to the results of the study published in the journal Circulationlarge fluctuations in cholesterol levels in older adults are linked to an increased risk of cognitive problems and dementia as they age.
To reach their conclusions, the researchers analyzed data collected thanks to the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) project. This vast project aims to study the effects of low-dose aspirin and the health of the elderly. The analysis included more than 9,800 participants in the ASPREE project and focused on adults aged over 70. Note that at the start of the study, none of the participants concerned suffered from dementia. Study participants’ cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglyceride levels were checked annually for three years and then followed for an additional six years.
Cholesterol May Directly Impact Brain Health
Note that LDL transports cholesterol in the body. This lipoprotein is often called “bad cholesterol” because it is the high levels of LDL that harm coronary health. As for HDL, this lipoprotein is solely responsible for transporting excess cholesterol to the liver so that it can be eliminated there. Given its function, it is generally considered to be “good cholesterol”. Coming back to the study, the researchers divided the participants into four groups based on fluctuations in their cholesterol levels.
The variabilities in cholesterol levels of participants in the highest and lowest quarter group were compared to diagnoses of dementia and cognitive decline. The results of the analyzes showed that changes in total cholesterol and LDL were both linked to a higher risk of dementia and faster cognitive decline. Specifically, high variability in cholesterol levels was associated with a 60% increased risk of dementia.
While the study could not establish the exact nature of the link between cholesterol fluctuation and cognitive decline, the researchers explained that this could be because these fluctuations can destabilize atherosclerotic plaques, which are mainly composed of LDL cholesterol. This destabilization can increase the risk of plaque growth, rupture and subsequent obstruction of blood flow in the brain, which can therefore impact brain function. Besides, here is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia.
