Lower LDL May Protect Against Alzheimer’s 

United States: Studies demonstrate that decreased levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol detect lower risks for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia diagnosis among patients. Research from the Journal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry demonstrated that individuals with LDL cholesterol below 70 mg/dl obtained a 26% dementia risk reduction alongside a 28% Alzheimer’s disease risk reduction compared to individuals with cholesterol above 130 mg/dl. 

Experts Highlight Cholesterol Targets for Brain Health 

Specific data published by Dr. Yerim Kim and her South Korean colleagues at Hallym University College of Medicine in Seoul demonstrates that LDL cholesterol requires targeted levels to stop dementia development, as reported by HealthDay. 

The American Heart Association states its dietary guideline for individuals with no heart disease conditions should manage their LDL cholesterol levels below 100 mg/dl. 

People who suffered heart attack or stroke should aim to keep their LDL cholesterol levels below 70 mg/dl. 

The heart health functions of LDL cholesterol have gained wide recognition yet the relationship between LDL cholesterol and brain activities remains to be fully understood. Research findings confirm that cholesterol reduction through statins does not lead to cognitive decline despite earlier uncertainty. 

Large-Scale Study Supports Findings 

The study analyzed data from 11 South Korean university hospitals, including: 

• 192,000 patients with LDL levels below 70 mg/dl 

• 379,000 patients with LDL levels above 130 mg/dl 

To ensure accurate comparisons, researchers created 109,000 matched patient pairs based on similar characteristics. The results showed that those with lower LDL levels had a significantly reduced risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. 

Additionally, patients taking statins to manage LDL levels saw further benefits: 

• 13% lower dementia risk 

• 12% lower Alzheimer’s risk 

The protective effect of LDL cholesterol against cardiovascular disease seems to disappear when measurement results drop below 30 mg/dl. 

How Does LDL Cholesterol Affect Dementia Risk? 

Researchers believe that LDL cholesterol may contribute to dementia risk through: 

• Brain inflammation 

• Blockages in brain arteries 

• Disruptions in cholesterol balance within the brain 

Another benefit of statins exists in their ability to minimize brain inflammation and regulate Amyloid beta protein metabolism that contributes to Alzheimer’s disease development, as reported by HealthDay. 

More Research Needed to Confirm Causation 

The research demonstrates a robust link between LDL cholesterol levels and dementia risk but researchers state that these findings do not validate decreased LDL cholesterol as an effective dementia prevention method. Additional clinical research must take place to prove the direct link between lower LDL cholesterol values and dementia prevention.