Cholesterol: Why Your Body Needs It

Cholesterol has often been vilified as a primary cause of heart disease, but the truth is, cholesterol is essential for life. Without it, our bodies wouldn’t function properly. While high cholesterol levels can pose health risks, having too little cholesterol can also be dangerous.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. It is primarily produced by the liver but can also be obtained through food. There are actually five major types of lipoproteins that transport cholesterol and other fats through the bloodstream:

1. Chylomicrons – Carry dietary fats (triglycerides and cholesterol) from the intestines to tissues.

2. Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL) – Transports triglycerides produced by the liver to various parts of the body.

3. Intermediate-Density Lipoprotein (IDL) – A transitional form between VLDL and LDL, carrying both cholesterol and triglycerides.

4. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – Often called “bad cholesterol,” it delivers cholesterol to cells but can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, often due to an inflammatory process.

5. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – Known as “good cholesterol,” it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver for excretion.

Our bodies can make it's own cholesterol in the liver from the foods we eat. Healthy sources of fats include avocados, nuts, seeds, coconuts, salmon, eggs, and olive oil.

The Essential Functions of Cholesterol

Cholesterol plays a critical role in several bodily functions, including:

1. Cell Membrane Integrity

Cholesterol is a crucial component of cell membranes, providing structural stability and fluidity. Without cholesterol, cells would become too rigid or too permeable, compromising their function and overall health.

2. Hormone Production

Cholesterol is the building block for steroid hormones, including:

• Estrogen and progesterone (important for reproductive health)

• Testosterone (essential for male reproductive functions and muscle maintenance)

• Cortisol (helps regulate stress response and metabolism)

• Aldosterone (maintains blood pressure and electrolyte balance)

3. Vitamin D Synthesis

When the skin is exposed to sunlight, cholesterol is converted into vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health, immune function, and calcium absorption.

4. Bile Production for Digestion

Cholesterol is a key ingredient in bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Bile helps break down fats and absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) in the small intestine.

5. Brain Function and Nervous System Health

The brain is highly dependent on cholesterol. In fact, about 25% of the body's cholesterol is found in the brain. Cholesterol is necessary for neuron function, the formation of synapses, and the production of myelin, a protective sheath that insulates nerve fibers and ensures efficient signal transmission.

What Happens When Cholesterol Levels Are Too Low?

While cholesterol levels are often a considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, having cholesterol levels that are too low can also cause serious health issues, including:

1. Hormonal Imbalances

Low cholesterol can lead to deficiencies in essential hormones, which can cause problems such as:

• Irregular menstrual cycles and fertility issues in women

• Low testosterone levels in men, leading to fatigue and reduced muscle mass

• Impaired stress response due to reduced cortisol levels

• Difficulty maintaining electrolyte balance and blood pressure regulation

• Inadequate Vitamin D synthesis leading to a deficient immune response, impaired calcium absorption, and decreases in bone density (osteopenia and osteoporosis).

2. Increased Risk of Stroke

Cholesterol helps maintain the integrity of blood vessels. Studies suggest that very low cholesterol levels may be associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke due to weakened blood vessel walls.

3. Cognitive Decline and Mental Health Issues

Since cholesterol is vital for brain function, excessively low levels have been linked to cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, and even an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

4. Weakened Immune System

Cholesterol is involved in the production of immune cells. Low cholesterol may impair the body’s ability to fight infections and heal properly.

5. Digestive Issues

A lack of cholesterol can lead to poor bile production, resulting in difficulty digesting fats and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins, potentially causing deficiencies.

Maintaining Healthy Cholesterol Levels

Maintaining cholesterol at an optimal level is crucial for overall health. Here are some ways to keep cholesterol in balance:

• Eat a Whole-Foods Diet: Include healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil) while avoiding processed/pre-packaged foods, sugars and refined carbohydrates.

• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps boost HDL and regulate overall cholesterol levels.

• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact cholesterol metabolism. Stress causes a state of inflammation and will increase cholesterol levels for the production of cortisol, a stress hormone. Consistently high stress levels = higher cholesterol (precursor for cortisol = Inflammation = Increased risk for cardiovascular disease...

  
  

Synopsis

Cholesterol is an essential substance that supports numerous bodily functions, from hormone production to brain health. While high cholesterol levels can pose health risks, low cholesterol can be equally concerning. If you are already taking a cholesterol lowering medication, you need to be aware of the adverse effects it can have on your body. If you start to experience signs/symptoms described above, bring your concerns to your healthcare provider. Achieving a balance through proper diet, exercise, and medical guidance is key to maintaining optimal health. Instead of fearing cholesterol, understanding its importance allows us to make informed lifestyle choices for overall well-being.