Does Your Cholesterol Have You Worried?

Cholesterol in and of itself isn’t bad. It is produced by almost every cell in the body. In fact, it plays many vital roles that help our bodies function.

Cholesterol Functions:

• It is nature’s repair substance, and is used for repairing wounds, tears and irritations in the arteries.
• It is vital to the function of the brain and nervous system.
• It protects us from depression, playing a role in the utilization of serotonin, the body’s feel good chemical.
• It is needed for the digestion of fats.
• It is a powerful antioxidant that protects us us against free radicals and therefore against cancer.

Cholesterol Myths & Truths:

Myth: People with high cholesterol are more prone to heart attacks

Truth: Young and middle-aged men with cholesterol levels over 350 are slightly more at risk for heart attacks. Those who have levels just below 350 are at no greater risk than those whose cholesterol is very low. For elderly men and women of all ages, high-cholesterol is associated with a longer life span.

Myth: Cholesterol & saturated fact clog arteries

Truth: There is very little cholesterol or saturated fat in the arterial plaque or clogs. Most of the material is a calcium deposit similar to lime and most of the fatty acids are unsaturated.

Myth: Eating saturated fat and cholesterol-rich foods will cause cholesterol levels to rise and make people more prone to heart disease.

Truth: Many studies show not relation between diet and cholesterol levels; there is no evidence that saturated fat and cholesterol rich food contribute to heart disease. As Americans have cut back on those kinds of food, rates of heart disease have gone up.

Myth: Cholesterol-lowering drugs have saved many lives.

Truth: In the 2 most recent trials, involving over 10,000 subjects, cholesterol lowering drugs did not result in any improvement in outcome.

Many people with high cholesterol are being prescribed drugs called statins to help lower their levels.

Unfortunately these drugs have many adverse side effects associated with them. Trials have shown that such things as omega-3 fatty acid supplements, fruit and vegetable rich diets and exercise are often a superior treatment. Results vary with each individual. If you have concerns, please consult with your healthcare professional.