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Low 'Good' Cholesterol Hurts Memory

Study links low HDL to brain's decline—and possibly dementia

By Kevin Spak, Newser Staff

Posted Jul 1, 2008 12:27 PM CDT

(Newser) – Low levels of high-density lipoprotein—so-called "good" cholesterol—lead to memory failure and perhaps dementia, a study finds. Researchers followed subjects aged 55-61, and found that patients with low HDL levels were 53% more likely to experience memory loss. "We looked at cognitive decline in midlife, but it may turn out that this decline is a risk factor for dementia," one researcher tells WebMD.

"Physicians monitor these levels regularly, but I don't think we pay enough attention to HDL cholesterol," the researcher adds. "Our results show HDL cholesterol to be important for memory, so physicians and patients should be encouraged to monitor HDL."

Middle-aged people who don't get enough HDL suffer memory loss, the study found. (Shutterstock)

High HDL also helps prevent heart disease. (Shutterstock)

Without enough HDL, memory declines, which could lead to dementia. (Shutterstock)

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Low 'Good' Cholesterol Hurts Memory

Study links low HDL to brain's decline—and possibly dementia

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More Newser Stories

Dieting Could Help Your Memory

Cutting calories could help stave off dementia, Alzheimer's

Web Use Gives Brain a Boost

For middle-aged, regular Internet surfing is better than reading a book: study

Low B12 Levels Tied to Brain Shrinkage, Memory Loss

Many adults deficient in crucial nutrient

Coffee May Stall Memory Loss in Women

Drink up, and maybe you won't forget where you set your cup down

See Something Traumatic? Don't Sleep Right Away

You might lock in those nasty memories: Study

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Low 'Good' Cholesterol Hurts Memory

Study links low HDL to brain's decline—and possibly dementia

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

memory • dementia • cholesterol • memory loss • scientific study • good cholesterol • high-density lipoprotein

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

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More Newser Stories

Dieting Could Help Your Memory

Cutting calories could help stave off dementia, Alzheimer's

Web Use Gives Brain a Boost

For middle-aged, regular Internet surfing is better than reading a book: study

Low B12 Levels Tied to Brain Shrinkage, Memory Loss

Many adults deficient in crucial nutrient

Coffee May Stall Memory Loss in Women

Drink up, and maybe you won't forget where you set your cup down

See Something Traumatic? Don't Sleep Right Away

You might lock in those nasty memories: Study

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

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More News

What is Newser?