Memory Loss
Memory loss may be associated with the cholesterol levels in a person’s blood. Various studies suggest that memory loss may be due to low levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or good cholesterol and higher levels of triglycerides and LDL (bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein).
In a 2002 research, researchers studied the relationship between cholesterol and problems with memory in women. Those with high levels of bad cholesterol showed an increase in their cognitive impairment and memory loss. After four years, when the subjects had lowered their levels of bad cholesterol, their cognitive impairment improved. In another study in 2004 done by researchers from the Netherlands, they found that having a diet high in saturated fats and cholesterol increased the risk of cognitive impairment in middle-aged persons. The cognitive decline becomes lower when switching to a diet that includes fish oil and fish.
There is no definite answer to why high cholesterol affects cognitive function and memory loss. Most of the researchers involved in various studies think it might be due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of HDL, which could also improve the functions of the brain. HDL also prevents the formation of beta-amyloid, which typically forms in the brain tissues of people with Alzheimer’s disease.
