What is the relationship between cholesterol and Alzheimer's?

Taking care of your health can be a daunting process, as you need to modify your lifestyle, adopt a balanced diet, and exercise, all in order to improve your physical and mental health. Although we know that this process is not easy, there are many reasons to turn your life around by 180°. The importance of a healthy and balanced diet becomes even more relevant when experts confirm that it is directly related to an increase of between 10 and 13 years in our life expectancy, as well as a decrease in the chances of suffering from degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. In the case of this progressive condition, which affects memory and various mental functions, everything indicates that it would be related to high levels of cholesterol and blood sugar, conditions that are the result of poor diet. It is worth remembering that Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia, which prevents people from carrying out most of their daily activities. Due to the seriousness of this disease, scientists and researchers continue their efforts to find ways to prevent Alzheimer's. You can also read: Drinking coffee could reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer'sWhat is Alzheimer's?According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that progresses slowly and affects memory, language, and thinking. For example, people begin to forget all sorts of things, details, and people. Subsequently, patients have difficulties speaking, reading, writing, and recognizing their relatives. Alzheimer's usually presents in people over 60 years old.How are cholesterol, triglycerides, and sugar related to Alzheimer's?A scientific article published in March 2022 by experts from Boston University indicates that there are three factors that would influence the onset of Alzheimer's: low levels of good cholesterol, high triglycerides, and glucose levels above the recommended level. Another relevant fact is that experts indicate that these three factors could be related to Alzheimer's from a very young age: 35 years. Therefore, it would be best to start taking care of your diet and your health in general before the age of 35, as this could help avoid suffering from this type of dementia in later years. This discovery was made thanks to the participation of 4,932 individuals in a study lasting more than 30 years. After analyzing the results of the participants, scientists found a relationship between low levels of HDL cholesterol and high levels of glucose and triglycerides. You can also read: Foods rich in antioxidants could prevent Alzheimer'sHow to raise your good cholesterol levelsThe U.S. National Library of Medicine recommends following these tips to increase HDL cholesterol levels, which could decrease the chances of suffering from Alzheimer's: 1. Adopt a healthy diet It is imperative to include more good fats in your diet, which can be found in avocados, olive oil, and all kinds of nuts. It is also recommended to eat more fiber-rich foods. 2. Limit the consumption of bad cholesterolReduce the intake of foods such as whole milk, cheese, bacon, sausages, lard, margarine, and junk food, among others. 3. Exercise According to experts, physical activity is perfect for increasing good cholesterol levels and reducing bad cholesterol. It is recommended to exercise every day for at least 30 minutes. 4. Forget about cigarettes Smoking and inhaling cigarette smoke lower good cholesterol levels, so it is recommended to quit smoking and avoid exposure to it. 5. No more alcohol Remember that consuming large amounts of alcohol will make you gain weight, which decreases good cholesterol levels. You can also read: Everything you need to know about a diabetic diet How to reduce triglyceridesThe Mayo Clinic recommends following these recommendations to combat high triglyceride levels: 1. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. 2. Decrease the consumption of foods containing sugar or fructose. Also, limit carbohydrate intake. 3. Adopt a dietary regimen that helps you reach your ideal weight. 4. Increase the consumption of healthy fats, such as olive oil, salmon, nuts, and almonds. 5. Say goodbye to alcoholic beverages, as they are high in sugar and calories.How to reduce glucose levelsIf you want to lower your blood sugar levels, the best thing to do is adopt these habits: 1. Consume fewer carbohydrates, as these convert to glucose. 2. Get moving! You can start slowly and increase the time each week. 3. It is best to choose foods with a low glycemic index. 4. Consume more fiber-rich foods.