Cholesterol: myth and truth

Cholesterol: myth and truth

Cholesterol: myth and truth

Cholesterol is a term that everyone has heard before. It is often associated with something negative - heart disease, obesity and blood vessel disease. But what is cholesterol really? Are there different types of cholesterol? And how does it affect our health? Let's take a close look at the topic and separate some myths from reality.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that occurs naturally in the body. It is necessary for various vital functions such as the formation of cell membranes, hormones and bile acids to digest fats. Our bodies normally produce enough cholesterol to perform these functions.

In addition, we can also absorb cholesterol through food. Animal foods such as meat, eggs and dairy products, for example, already contain large amounts of this fatty substance.

Difference between good and bad cholesterol

You may have heard of “good” (HDL) or “bad” (LDL) cholesterol levels. These terms refer to two types of lipoproteins - particles in the bloodstream - that transport cholesterol:

1. High Density Lipoprotein (HDL)

HDL cholesterol levels are generally considered “good” because HDL tends to carry the excess cholesterol from the arteries back to the liver. The liver then breaks it down or excretes it through the bile. High HDL levels can therefore reduce the risk of heart disease.

2. Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL)

In contrast, LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” because high LDL levels are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. When there is too much LDL cholesterol in the blood, it can build up on the walls of the arteries and eventually lead to plaques that can restrict blood flow.

How does cholesterol affect our health?

High blood cholesterol levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, this does not usually pose an immediate health risk. Rather, other factors such as smoking, lack of exercise and an unbalanced diet combined with high cholesterol are responsible for heart disease or stroke.

It is important to note that not all people are sensitive to a diet containing cholesterol. Some people have genetic differences in the way their bodies process or produce cholesterol. These individuals may be more sensitive to a high-cholesterol diet and may have a higher cardiovascular risk.

Myths about cholesterol

Myth 1: Eating foods containing cholesterol automatically increases blood cholesterol levels.

Fact: It's true that some foods high in saturated fats and trans fats can increase blood cholesterol levels. However, there is no direct connection between the intake of foods containing cholesterol and increases in blood cholesterol levels in most people. Our bodies normally produce enough cholesterol to meet our needs.

Myth 2: All types of fat are bad for the heart.

Fact: Not all fats are created equal. Healthy fats like unsaturated fatty acids (e.g. omega-3 fatty acids) can actually help reduce the risk of heart disease. So it's not just about how much fat we eat, but also about the type of fat we consume.

Myth 3: Lower your cholesterol at all costs.

Fact: Although it is important to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, this should not mean that you have to keep your levels as low as possible. A certain level of LDL cholesterol is necessary for the body to function properly. It is better to pay attention to maintaining a balance rather than lowering cholesterol levels too much unnecessarily.

FAQs about cholesterol

1. Which foods lower cholesterol?

Some foods have been shown to have positive effects on blood cholesterol levels. These include fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes and fruit, as well as unsaturated fatty acids from olive oil and fish.

2. How often should you have your cholesterol checked?

It is recommended to have a lipid profile test every four to six years. However, if you already have cardiovascular disease or a family history, it may be advisable to have more frequent check-ups.

3. Are statins the only solution to lower cholesterol?

Statins are medications used to lower LDL cholesterol and are commonly prescribed. However, in many cases, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise can also help lower cholesterol naturally.

Sources:
– American Heart Association: https://www.hearthub.org/hc-risk-factors-high-cholesterol
– Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/expert-answers/cholesterol-level/faq-20057952