Scientists have named three conditions that increase the risk of dementia

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There are currently no surefire ways to prevent dementia in old age, however, scientists continue to look for factors that can affect the decline of brain functions. Experts believe that a high level of sugar and triglycerides in the blood, as well as a low level of “good” cholesterol, can threaten the brain.

The relationship between one of the most common forms of dementia – Alzheimer's disease – and three potentially dangerous conditions of the body man was discovered by scientists from Boston University. They conducted research involving about 5,000 people. At the time the experiment began, their average age was 37.

Participants underwent nine examinations every four years. Each of them was observed until they reached the age of 70.

During the examinations, high-density lipoproteins (LDL – “good” cholesterol), low-density lipoproteins (LDL – “bad” cholesterol) were measured in people, the level blood sugar, body mass index, blood pressure and number of cigarettes smoked. The participants also underwent tests to assess the cognitive functions of the brain.

After analyzing the data, the researchers concluded that higher levels of sugar and triglycerides in the blood, as well as reduced HDL content in each of the three conditions separately in people over 35 years old were associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease. At the same time, scientists did not find a connection between an increased risk of dementia and body mass index, LDL, smoking and blood pressure.