How to Address Abnormal Cholesterol Levels?

Cholesterol Level Abnormalities

You may be surprised to learn why a low-cholesterol diet is not always the best approach to reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. Only around 15% of individuals effectively slow down aging processes after adopting a low-cholesterol diet. Genetic factors play a significant role in determining an individual's sensitivity to dietary cholesterol, with some being highly susceptible while others remaining unaffected.

While it is generally recommended that daily cholesterol intake should not exceed 300 milligrams, individuals who are naturally insensitive to dietary cholesterol can consume up to 1000 milligrams daily without adverse effects. Those who are particularly sensitive to cholesterol should avoid high-cholesterol foods to delay arterial aging.

But how can one determine their sensitivity to dietary cholesterol? This can only be assessed by measuring blood concentrations before and after controlling dietary cholesterol intake. A significant drop indicates high sensitivity, while a moderate decrease of 10% to 15% suggests insensitivity.

For most people, obesity has a greater impact on blood cholesterol levels than cholesterol intake. Unless you are exceptionally sensitive to dietary cholesterol, the majority of cholesterol in your blood is produced by your body. The liver converts saturated fats, trans fats, and sugars into triglycerides, which are then converted into cholesterol.

The best way to lower LDL levels is through weight loss. Additionally, opting for foods low in simple sugars, saturated fats, and trans fats is a wise choice. If LDL levels are excessively high, medical treatment may be considered, with the latest and most effective drugs including pravastatin, atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, and simvastatin. Data suggests that statins can significantly delay arterial aging, normalize cholesterol levels, inhibit heart valve inflammation and platelet proliferation, and reduce arterial inflammation.

However, regular use of statins is not recommended. Firstly, statins are a relatively new class of drugs, and the long-term side effects of prolonged use are still unclear. Secondly, excessively low cholesterol levels may lead to neurological or immune system dysfunction.

Too Low Cholesterol Levels

When discussing cholesterol levels, we often focus on high LDL levels, but what about the other side of the spectrum? Is it possible to have too low a cholesterol level? Indeed, it is possible. Some studies have found that individuals with very low cholesterol levels seem to have higher rates of cancer, neurological disorders, and suicide. This may be because cholesterol is essential for the formation of myelin sheaths (the substance surrounding nerves) and plays a crucial role in brain cell function and hormone secretion. Therefore, excessively low cholesterol levels may affect mood and emotional well-being.