There is a good chance everything you know about Cholesterol is wrong.
So here are some fact that you should know!
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is vital for life.
It is a key component of the membranes surrounding every cell and serves as the raw material for the body to produce bile acids, steroid hormones, and Vitamin D.
Cholesterol & Your Brain
Cholesterol is crucial for your brain health, so much so that your brain has its own system for producing it.
Despite making up only 2% of the body’s weight, the brain holds about 25% of your body’s total cholesterol.
Cholesterol & Parkinson's Disease
This paper noted that Parkinson's disease patients tend to have lower total and LDL cholesterol levels in their blood, while ferritin (iron) levels are elevated.
Cholesterol & Memory
This study suggests in the elderly, higher total and LDL cholesterol levels are linked to better memory function.
And this study found improved memory function is linked to higher levels of total and LDL cholesterol in older adults.
Cholesterol & Dementia
Research indicates higher total cholesterol levels in later life are linked to a decreased risk of developing dementia.
At total cholesterol levels exceeding 7.75 mmol/L, the risk of dementia was significantly reduced by up to 80%.
Cholesterol & Depression
These scientists found that elderly people with dementia or depression had significantly lower cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol & Mortality
According to this study, all-cause mortality is lower in seniors with higher LDL.
There is an inverse relationship between all-cause mortality and LDL cholesterol, observed in 92% of the participants.
Cholesterol & Ratios
This paper shows that a high triglyceride-to-HDL ratio is linked to extensive coronary artery disease, whereas elevated LDL cholesterol was not associated with it.
Cholesterol & LDL-C
LDL cholesterol is not a cause of cardiovascular disease, regardless of its label as "bad" cholesterol. Source.
Conclusion
Cholesterol is often misunderstood, but it plays an essential role in overall health, from supporting brain function to influencing memory and reducing the risk of certain conditions like dementia.
Contrary to common belief, higher levels of cholesterol, especially in seniors, have been linked to better outcomes in studies on memory, mortality, and overall health.
It's time to rethink cholesterol's role and how it impacts our bodies.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
Always consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on your specific health needs and before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle.
