Brain Health and Cholesterol
Latest research
Newly publish research into molecules found in the blood, and there effects on ageing brains, affecting memory and decline of capability.
The study has a rather complicated name, but in simpler terms it would read like this:
Cholesterol-metabolism, plant sterols, and long-term cognitive decline in older people — effects of sex and APOEe4
Here’s an explanation of the research findings in simpler terms:
The researchers were studying whether certain cholesterol-related molecules in the blood are linked to brain health and memory problems in older adults.
They measured levels of different cholesterol precursors, metabolites (breakdown products), triglycerides, and plant sterols (from diet) in hundreds of older adults over several years.
Also evaluated was the participants’ cognitive function to see who declined over time.
The results showed:
Specific cholesterol precursors and metabolites, especially certain ones that differed between men and women, were associated with greater cognitive decline over time.
Changes in certain cholesterol-related molecules over the years were linked to more cognitive decline.
Higher levels of plant sterols from the diet were also connected to greater cognitive decline.
Overall, the findings suggest imbalances in cholesterol production and metabolism, as well as higher dietary plant sterols, may contribute to brain and memory problems in ageing.
This might help identify ways to prevent cognitive decline, like monitoring cholesterol-related blood biomarkers and adjusting diet.
The results are important for understanding factors that influence cognitive health in the elderly and show these circulating sterol molecules should be considered when evaluating brain ageing risk.
