MY HIGH HDL CHOLESTEROL IS GOOD, RIGHT? MAYBE NOT. A new study shows that high and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) — but not levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are associated with increased dementia risk....CONTINUE READING
The World Health Organization reports that more than 55 million people have dementia worldwide, with over 60 percent living in low-and middle-income countries. Every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases.
As the population ages, epidemiologists believe the prevalence of dementia will rise, making it essential to understand better the risk factors associated with this condition.
One factor that has gained attention in recent years is high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Many consider HDL cholesterol the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
I will explore the new study suggesting a relationship between high and low HDL cholesterol levels and the risk of developing dementia.
The Role of HDL Cholesterol
HDL cholesterol is one of the two main types of cholesterol found in the body, with the other being low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for various bodily functions, such as building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, an imbalance in cholesterol levels can lead to health problems.
An illustration of cholesterol types (HDL versus LDL). The imgea shows cross-sectional images of two arteries. The LDL is depicted in yellow, as small particles and plaque. The HDL is shown as small green particles. HDL cholesterol is one of the two main types of cholesterol found in the body, with the other being low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for various bodily functions, such as building cell membranes and producing hormones.
Cholesterol types. Adobe Stock Photos.
Many refer to HDL cholesterol as “good” because it removes excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
It acts like a scavenger, picking up excess cholesterol from the arteries and transporting it to the liver, where it is broken down and removed from the body.
This process is known as reverse cholesterol transport and helps to protect against the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries, a major risk factor for heart disease.
