Older individuals with higher levels of triglycerides, a type of fat, may have a reduced risk of developing dementia, according to new research published in the online issue of Neurology. The study followed over 18,000 seniors without prior dementia diagnoses for six years and found that those with elevated triglyceride concentrations had a decreased incidence of dementia compared to those with lower levels.
It is important to note that the study does not confirm that triglycerides prevent dementia, but rather suggests that they may serve as a predictor of dementia risk. Triglycerides are the brain’s primary energy source, constituting up to 95% of dietary fats.
The results of the study were based on data from over 18,000 participants and were further validated using another dataset of 68,200 older individuals from the United Kingdom. Every doubling of triglyceride levels was associated with an 18% decreased risk of developing dementia.
Participants were divided into four groups based on fasting triglyceride levels. The lowest group had levels below 62 mg/dL, the second group had levels between 63 and 106 mg/dL, the third group had levels between 107 and 186 mg/dL, and the fourth group had levels of 187 mg/dL or higher. Compared to the lowest group, the second group was 15% less likely to develop dementia, the third group was 24% less likely, and the fourth group was 36% less likely.
In addition to a lower risk of dementia, higher triglycerides were also associated with a slower decline in overall cognitive function. The study’s findings suggest that triglyceride levels may serve as a useful predictor for dementia risk and cognitive decline in older populations.
The research has its limitations, as it only looked at individuals aged 65 and older without cognitive issues initially, making the findings not generalizable to other populations. Further studies are needed to explore whether specific components within triglycerides can promote better cognitive function and develop preventive strategies.
The study was supported by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the HCF Research Foundation. The findings will be published in the journal Neurology.
Overall, the research provides valuable insights into the potential role of triglycerides in dementia risk and cognitive decline in older individuals. Understanding the relationship between triglyceride levels and brain health could lead to the development of new preventive strategies for dementia.