Aging brain, cholestoral increases risk of Alzheimer's

- Sun, 11 Nov 2007

High levels of cholesterol and an inactive lifestyle, both already identified as major risk factors for heart disease and stroke, may also increase an older person's chances of contracting Alzheimer's Disease, according to a new study at Banner Alzheimer's Institute in Phoenix.

Using the latest brain imaging technology, the scientists were able to 'see'  the areas of the brain that were active while a person's memory was being tested. According to a report in Science Daily the researchers looked at what happened in people of normal intelligence with high levels of cholesterol who also carried a common Alzheimer's susceptibility gene (known as  APOE4). They found that the subjects had lower-than-normal cell activity in areas of the brain associated with the onset of Alzheimer's. Cell activity was also low in the areas of the brain impaired by normal aging. Add in the inactive lifestyle and the reduced brain activity was significant.

The study's author Eric Reiman, MD, told Science Daily,  "Our findings raise the possibility that higher cholesterol levels conspire with other risk factors to trigger Alzheimer's. They support the possibility that cholesterol lowering treatments might improve brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's Disease as people grow older."

There are other ways to stave off the possibility of Alzheimer's if you're concerned you may be at risk. Recent studies have proven that physical activity for just 20 minutes three times a week can stimulate the brain's production of new memory cells. In addition, brain exercises, such as computer-based memory games, can strengthen the brain's pathways associated with memory and concentration. These exercises can not only improve concentration and memory but also act to protect the brain against age-related memory loss, dementia and even Alzheimer's. To find out more about HeadStrong Cognitive Fitness' internationally acclaimed  brain training exercises, click here.