A new health study suggests that higher levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL-C) may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in postmenopausal women, challenging long-held assumptions about its protective role.
According to research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism by experts from the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, elevated HDL-C levels could be linked to higher Alzheimer’s risk after menopause, despite HDL traditionally being considered beneficial for overall health.
The long-term study analyzed blood samples from 503 women and tracked their cognitive health over several years. Researchers found that after menopause, the quality of HDL cholesterol becomes more important than its quantity. As women age, the functional quality of HDL particles tends to decline, potentially affecting brain health.
The study explained that HDL particles vary in size and function. Over time, the number of larger HDL particles increased in women’s blood, but these larger particles were found to be less effective than smaller HDL particles.
Between 2000 and 2016, researchers regularly assessed participants’ memory and cognitive abilities. The findings showed that women with higher levels of smaller HDL particles — particularly those rich in phospholipids, a type of healthy fat — performed better on memory tests as they aged. Phospholipids play a crucial role in maintaining healthy brain cells.
Professor Dr Samar of the University of Pittsburgh, who led the research project, said memory decline is one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s disease. He added that earlier studies by the same research team indicated that healthy lifestyle habits can improve the functioning of HDL particles.
These habits include regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking, the study noted.
