Delaying high blood sugar and cholesterol treatment in your 20s and 30s can lead to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease later in life. High-density lipoprotein (HDL), the so-called good kind of cholesterol linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, also is associated with lower dementia and Alzheimer’s risks in older adults.
High Levels of Blood Sugar and Triglycerides May Contribute to Alzheimer’s Risk
High blood triglycerides and blood sugar appear to be linked with a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, according to an analysis of data from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.
Younger adults have a 34% higher chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease if they have high triglyceride levels. This refers to unhealthy fats that make blood stickier, thicker, and more likely to clot. At the same time, they are also 12% more likely to have Alzheimer’s if they have high blood sugar.
Most people do not pay much attention to their LDL cholesterol levels until middle age. Many focus on the risk of heart disease associated with high LDL levels when they do. They may not realize that high LDL and low HDL levels also affect brain health.
Early intervention can help to prevent or slow age-related cognitive decline. By adopting healthy eating and exercise habits and taking any medication necessary to maintain normal cholesterol and blood sugar level, people can keep their brains sharper for longer. Even small lifestyle changes can make a big difference to cognitive decline later in life.