Dr. Roach explains that while high HDL cholesterol is generally protective against heart disease, levels over 80 mg/dL may not always be beneficial, especially in certain populations with genetic factors or health conditions. He emphasizes the importance of considering family history and other risk factors when evaluating cholesterol levels and cautions against over-reliance on current screening tests like the Galleri blood test for cancer detection, due to their limited accuracy.
Nutritionist Anjali Mukerjee shares four tips to increase HDL cholesterol levels, including exercising regularly, consuming omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fatty fish and flaxseeds, replacing unhealthy fats with healthy fats found in avocado and nuts, and avoiding refined carbohydrates and sugary foods to improve overall cardiovascular health.
Recent research suggests that the traditional understanding of cholesterol and its impact on cardiovascular health may be incomplete. While statins have been effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, they do not address other problematic cholesterol types such as lipoprotein(a) and remnant cholesterol. New medications targeting these cholesterol types are being researched, with the hope of reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, the role of HDL cholesterol is more complex than previously thought, and efforts to raise its levels have not shown significant health benefits. The emerging consensus is to minimize non-HDL cholesterol for better cardiovascular health.
Both high and low levels of HDL cholesterol, also known as "good" cholesterol, are associated with a slightly increased risk of dementia in older adults, according to a study published in Neurology. The study, which involved over 184,000 participants, found that those with the highest levels of HDL cholesterol had a 15% higher rate of dementia compared to those in the middle group, while those with the lowest levels had a 7% higher rate. The study also considered other risk factors such as alcohol use, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. However, the clinical significance of these findings remains uncertain.
A new study published in Neurology suggests that both high and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, commonly known as "good" cholesterol, may increase the risk of dementia in older adults. The study, which included over 184,000 adults, found a correlation between HDL cholesterol and dementia but did not prove a direct causation. The average HDL cholesterol level in the study was within the recommended range, and individuals whose levels strayed too far from this range had a higher risk of developing dementia. The study highlights the complexity of the relationship between HDL cholesterol and dementia and the need for further research in this area.
New research suggests that both high and low levels of HDL cholesterol, often referred to as the "good" cholesterol, may increase the risk of dementia. The study, which analyzed data from over 184,000 participants, found that those with the highest levels of HDL cholesterol had a 15% higher rate of dementia compared to those in the middle group, while those with the lowest levels had a 7% higher rate. However, the clinical significance of these findings remains uncertain, and further research is needed to understand the complex associations between HDL cholesterol and dementia.
High levels of HDL cholesterol, often referred to as "good" cholesterol, may increase the risk of dementia, according to a study by Boston University. The research, which followed 185,000 participants over nearly a decade, found that those with the highest levels of HDL cholesterol had a 15% higher risk of dementia compared to those with average levels. The study did not find a similar link between low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, known as "bad" cholesterol, and dementia risk. The findings challenge the traditional belief that higher HDL cholesterol levels are always beneficial and highlight the complex relationship between cholesterol and dementia.
To measure cholesterol levels, a blood test called a lipoprotein panel is conducted after fasting for 9-12 hours. The test provides information on total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides levels. Recommended cholesterol values vary based on age and gender. A total cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL or higher is considered high, but borderline high and near optimal categories exist. Making dietary and lifestyle adjustments can help control cholesterol levels.
