Almost seven years ago, I warned you about patients with high uric acid levels in their blood elevating their risk of death due to heart disease. Evidently, uric acid levels in the high-normal range may also be a sign of dementia, according to a new study.
Researchers evaluated blood samples from 96 seniors, ranging in age from 60-92, and measured their memory skills using a number of standardized neuropsychological tests, including the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale.
Even taking into account such factors as age, race, hypertension and alcohol, men (5.8-7.6 mg/dL) and women (4.8-7.1 mg/dL) with elevated levels of uric acid in the normal range were more prone to cognitive problems. Interestingly, however, a patient's diabetic condition and weight weren't factors, although high uric acid levels are associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, and obesity has been linked to an increased risk of dementia too.
The best way to control your uric acid levels, way back then and today, remains the same: Reducing, with the plan of eliminating, your intake of grains and sugars. Other ways to reduce your dementia risks safely and naturally: