Can Raising HDL Levels Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer's Disease

Written By: Kelsey Coates- Poole

She| Her| Hers

Department of Nursing and Allied Health

Howard University, Dietetics Student, Class of 2023

Alzheimer's disease is a disease that negatively affects memory and other vital brain processes over time. Plaque is generated in the brain mostly as a result of an excessive buildup of protein, which inhibits communication between brain cells. This causes the brain to shrink over time, resulting in memory loss. According to research, individuals with lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and greater blood fat levels as early as age 35 have a higher chance of acquiring Alzheimer's disease later in life.

Because it aids in the removal of other types of cholesterol from the circulating blood, HDL is regarded as the "good" cholesterol. Avoiding cigarettes, engaging in moderate physical exercise, and making dietary modifications are all known to boost HDL levels. Smoking reduces the quantity of HDL in the blood while increasing the amount of LDL, or "bad" cholesterol in the blood. Physical activity can help you lose weight by reducing the amount of fat in your body. To maintain a low active lifestyle, it is advised that people exercise for at least 15 minutes each day. The MIND diet is recommended for those with Alzheimer's disease, and it can also be used to increase HDL levels.

The MIND diet encourages people to consume more brain-healthy foods such as green leafy vegetables and other vegetables, berries, nuts, olive oil, whole grains, fish/seafood, legumes, and poultry while avoiding highly processed, high-saturated-fat meals. These foods are high in fiber and include minerals including vitamin E, folate, omega-3 (an anti-inflammatory), carotenoids, and flavonoids, which have been demonstrated to boost brain function. Butter/margarine, cheese, red meat, fried meals, and sweets & pastries are all listed as items to avoid or limit in the MIND diet.Individuals may do a variety of activities to raise their HDL levels. This involves quitting smoking, exercising regularly at a moderate level, and adhering to dietary guidelines that limit saturated fat intake. These interventions also lower the probability of Alzheimer's disease developing in the future.

References

“HDL and LDL Cholesterol - How to Lower Bad Cholesterol.” Ecosh Life, 17 Nov. 2021, https://ecosh.com/cholesterol-hdl-and-ldl-how-to-lower-your-bad-cholesterol-naturally/.