#331: Does Lowering Cholesterol Cause Dementia? What You Need To Know About Cholesterol's Relationship To Alzheimers & Dementia
Mar 7, 2024
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Delve into controversial topic of cholesterol's influence on dementia, its importance for brain health, and the dual nature of cholesterol. Explore LDL and HDL roles in heart health, APOB testing for cardiovascular risks, and link between physical inactivity, dementia, and cholesterol. Discuss impact of statins on cognitive performance and ways to maintain low LDL levels for brain health.
17:55
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Quick takeaways
Cholesterol levels impact heart and brain health differently; LDL increases heart disease risk, while HDL reduces it.
Lowering cholesterol, including with statins, does not impair cognitive function and may benefit brain health.
Deep dives
The Role of Cholesterol in Brain Health
Cholesterol plays a vital role in cell membrane integrity, hormone production, and neuron function. LDL cholesterol, known as 'bad cholesterol,' can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol acts as the 'clean-up crew,' reducing plaque formation and decreasing heart disease risk. APOB serves as a key indicator of potential plaque-forming particles in the bloodstream, emphasizing the importance of monitoring cholesterol levels for cardiovascular health.
Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease
Dementia encompasses diseases like Alzheimer's, causing cognitive decline and challenging independent living. Alzheimer's, a prevalent form of dementia, accounts for a substantial number of cases. Modifiable risk factors, including physical inactivity, play a significant role in dementia development. Research highlights the importance of physical activity in reducing Alzheimer's risk and promoting brain health.
Cholesterol, Statins, and Cognitive Function
Lowering cholesterol, including through the use of statins, benefits brain health and cognition. Studies reveal that reducing LDL cholesterol levels does not impair cognitive performance. Statins, when taken to lower cholesterol, show no adverse effects on cognitive function or dementia risk. Dietary interventions, exercise, and cholesterol-lowering medications can together improve outcomes and reduce Alzheimer's and dementia risk.
In today's episode, we dive deep into the heart of a controversial and often misunderstood topic: the relationship between cholesterol levels and dementia.
For decades, the push to lower cholesterol has been a cornerstone of cardiovascular health. But what if this well-intentioned advice had unintended consequences for our brains?
Join me as we explore the dual nature of cholesterol, a substance vilified for its association with heart disease yet essential for brain health and function.
This episode unfolds the complex science behind cholesterol, shedding light on how it supports cognitive functions, protects the brain, and the downstream cognitive impacts of lowering it.
The Neuro Experience Podcast is proud to have hosted: Dr Andrew Huberman, Dr Gabrielle Lyon, Dr Layne Norton, Thomas DeLauer, Shawn Stevenson, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Saad Alam, Uma Naidoo, Dr. Lanna Cheuck, Angela Lee Pucci, Jillian Turecki, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum, Dr. Darren Candow, Dr. Sue Varma, Evy Poumpouras, Dr Casey Means, Renee Deehan, Dr Chris Palmer, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Joe Zundell, Dr Ray Dorsy, Dr Dale Bredeson, Dr. Ben Bikman
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