The Proof with Simon Hill

Cholesterol and dementia | Dr Kellyann Niotis, Md and Dr Thomas Dayspring, Md

Sep 30, 2024

Dr. Kellyann Niotis, a preventive neurologist, and Dr. Thomas Dayspring, a lipidologist, dive into the intriguing connection between cholesterol and dementia. They highlight vital preventive strategies for brain health, discussing the role of LDL cholesterol, genetic factors like the ApoE4 allele, and the significance of early lifestyle changes. With insights into personalized health strategies, they explore how managing cholesterol levels can be an effective way to reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Don't miss their tips on omega-3 fatty acids and new therapeutic approaches!

02:12:31

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Episode guests

Kellyann Niotis

Thomas Dayspring

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Quick takeaways

Understanding the link between LDL cholesterol and dementia risk highlights the importance of early lifestyle changes for long-term brain health.

The ApoE gene variants significantly influence individual dementia risk and necessitate personalized prevention strategies based on genetic testing.

Research identifies fourteen modifiable risk factors for dementia, underlining the critical role of education, depression, and lifestyle throughout life.

Advancements in biomarkers such as amyloid-beta and tau proteins can aid early detection and intervention strategies for cognitive decline.

Deep dives

Understanding Dementia and Its Risk Factors

Dementia is an umbrella term encompassing various cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Key factors contributing to dementia risk include low-quality education, hearing loss, and depression. The 2024 Lancet report identifies 14 modifiable risk factors linked to nearly 50% of dementia cases, highlighting the importance of lifestyle choices throughout life. Prevention efforts should begin early, as many of these risks can be influenced by actions taken in youth and mid-life.

Exploring Alternatives to Statins for Cholesterol Management

00:37

Moderation in Cholesterol Management

01:05

Intro

5min

Preventive Neurology and Dementia Insights

17min

Medications and Brain Health: Unraveling Dementia

12min

Preventive Neurology and ApoE Insights

8min

ApoE Gene Variants and Alzheimer's Risk

9min

Navigating Brain Lipoproteins and Cholesterol Dynamics

27min

Genetic Insights and Cholesterol's Role in Alzheimer’s

15min

Understanding Statins: Hydrophilic vs Hydrophobic and Their Effects

3min

Exploring the Impact of Cholesterol on Brain Health

3min

10.

Cholesterol and Dementia: Understanding the Link

9min

11.

Understanding APOE Alleles and Brain Health

23min

Episode #333. What does cholesterol have to do with dementia? Learn how to protect your brain health in the long term with this information you should be considering from your twenties and thirties. From cutting-edge science on cholesterol metabolism to fourteen key risk factors for dementia, we break down what you can do now to reduce your risk of cognitive decline later.

In this episode, I’m joined by two renowned experts, Dr Kellyann Niotis and Dr Thomas Dayspring. Together, we explore the connection between cholesterol and dementia, personalised prevention strategies, and how making lifestyle changes today can safeguard your brain for the future.

Specifically, we discuss:

Intro (00:00)
Cardiology Meets Neurology: Understanding the Connection (07:53)
Dementia and Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Comprehensive Overview (13:26)
Recognizing Early Dementia Signs and Risk Factors (21:43)
Lipoproteins and Brain Health: The Crucial Link (32:36)
ApoB vs ApoE: Comparing Apoprotein Functions in Neurological Health (44:24)
APOE4 Carriers: Potential Therapeutic Approaches (01:00:30)
ApoA1 and HDL: Their Role in Dementia Prevention (01:03:27)
Genetic Testing for Dementia: Understanding APOE4 Implications (01:13:19)
APOE4 Gene: Impact on Dementia Risk and Brain Health (01:17:58)
Desmosterol's Role in Maintaining Brain Health (01:20:56)
LDL Cholesterol: A Key Factor in Dementia Risk Assessment (01:34:05)
APOE4: Comparing Single vs. Double Copy Risk Factors (01:39:15)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential Nutrients for Brain Health (01:38:49)
LDL Cholesterol Levels: Assessing Low vs. High Risk for Dementia (01:56:50)
Key Takeaways: Preventive Neurology and Future Research Directions (02:00:10)

Connect with Dr Kellyann Niotis at https://drkellyannniotis.com/ and discover research and resources at https://ind.org/. Connect with Dr Thomas Dayspring on Twitter/X or LinkedIn, and listen to his past appearances on The Proof here.

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Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)

Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill

Author of The Proof is in the Plants