Imagine being told that everything you thought you knew about cholesterol is wrong. Contrary to popular belief, high cholesterol is not the villain it's made out to be. In fact, elevated cholesterol levels are essential for optimal health, hormone production, and even longevity. This paradigm shift challenges decades of medical advice and opens the door to a deeper understanding of cholesterol's vital role in our bodies.
Cholesterol is a fundamental building block for every cell membrane, ensuring structural integrity and fluidity. It's the precursor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, including testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol, which regulate a myriad of physiological processes from metabolism to immune response. Without adequate cholesterol, our bodies couldn't produce these hormones, leading to imbalances and health issues.
Moreover, research indicates that higher cholesterol levels, particularly in older adults, are associated with increased longevity and better cognitive function. A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol was linked to a higher likelihood of reaching age 90 with intact mobility and cognitive function.
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It's time to reevaluate the conventional narrative and recognize that high cholesterol is not the enemy. Embracing this perspective can lead to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.
The Truth About LDL and HDL: There Is No ‘Good’ or ‘Bad’ Cholesterol
We’ve all heard the terms “good” and “bad” cholesterol, referring to HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) respectively. This narrative, however, is misleading.
- LDL is not inherently bad. It is a carrier molecule that transports cholesterol, an essential building block for cell membranes, hormones, and brain function.
- HDL is not necessarily "good." It helps clear excess cholesterol, but its function is only relevant in the context of overall metabolic health.
- The real problem is OXIDIZED LDL, which results from inflammation, poor diet (high in seed oils and processed foods), and metabolic dysfunction.
LDL’s Essential Role in Hormone Production
Cholesterol is the precursor for steroid hormones, including:
- Testosterone
- Progesterone
- Cortisol
- Estrogen
- DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)
Lowering LDL through statins or diet reduces the body’s ability to produce these critical hormones, leading to hormone imbalances, low energy, depression, decreased libido, and increased risk of chronic illness. Men with low cholesterol often experience lower testosterone levels, while women can suffer from hormonal dysfunction.
Cholesterol and Brain Health
Cholesterol is vital for brain function. The brain is composed of about 60% fat, and cholesterol is integral to neuron function and neurotransmitter production. Low cholesterol is strongly linked to cognitive decline, memory loss, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
A study published in JAMA Neurology found that higher LDL levels are associated with better cognitive function in the elderly (1). Meanwhile, cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins) have been linked to INCREASED risks of dementia and cognitive impairment (2).
The Direct Link Between High Cholesterol and Longevity
Several large-scale studies have debunked the myth that high cholesterol shortens lifespan. In fact, higher cholesterol is correlated with increased longevity, particularly in older adults.
- A 2016 study published in the BMJ analyzed 19 studies with a total of 68,000 participants and found no correlation between high LDL and mortality in individuals over 60 years old (3).
- Another study from 2019 in the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons demonstrated that older individuals with higher cholesterol lived longer than those with lower levels (4).
The key factor in heart disease and overall health is not LDL levels, but metabolic health, including low triglycerides and proper insulin function.
Cholesterol and Heart Disease: The Missing Link
Conventional wisdom suggests that high LDL cholesterol causes plaque buildup in arteries, leading to heart disease. However, this is an oversimplification.
The Real Cause of Cardiovascular Disease: Inflammation
Experts like Dr. Paul Saladino and Dr. Shawn Baker emphasize that heart disease is primarily driven by inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, not cholesterol levels alone. Factors that contribute to inflammation include:
- Seed oils (high in linoleic acid)
- Refined carbohydrates and sugars
- Chronic stress
- Lack of physical activity
- Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome
When LDL becomes oxidized due to inflammation, it can contribute to arterial plaque. But high LDL in the absence of oxidation is not harmful—in fact, it plays a protective role in the body.
Triglycerides: The True Marker of Heart Health and the Role of Linoleic Acid
For years, cholesterol has been blamed for heart disease, but the real danger lies elsewhere: elevated triglycerides. Triglycerides are fats in the bloodstream, primarily influenced by carbohydrate intake and dietary fat sources. When you consume too many carbohydrates—especially refined sugars and processed foods—the body converts the excess into triglycerides, storing them in fat cells.
Why High Triglycerides Are Dangerous
Unlike LDL cholesterol, which has essential functions, elevated triglycerides signal metabolic dysfunction and an increased risk of heart disease, obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Chronically high triglyceride levels contribute to:
· Arterial plaque formation
· Increased inflammation
· Fatty liver disease
· Poor metabolic health
Instead of worrying about cholesterol, the real focus should be on keeping triglycerides low. One of the biggest drivers of high triglycerides? Excessive consumption of linoleic acid from seed oils.
The Link Between Linoleic Acid and High Triglycerides
Linoleic acid, an omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), is found in many industrial seed oils. While small amounts are necessary, excessive intake can increase inflammation, contribute to insulin resistance, and raise triglyceride levels.
Here’s a look at the oils highest in linoleic acid:
- Safflower oil (~75%)
- Grape seed oil (~70%)
- Sunflower oil (~68%)
- Corn oil (~58%)
- Soybean oil (~51%)
These oils dominate modern diets, hidden in processed foods, fast food, salad dressings, and even so-called “heart-healthy” cooking oils. Overconsumption skews the body's omega-6 to omega-3 balance, leading to chronic inflammation and poor lipid profiles.
The Right Fats for Low Triglycerides and Better Health
Replacing high-linoleic acid seed oils with stable, nutrient-dense animal fats can dramatically improve triglyceride levels and overall heart health. Better alternatives include:
· Beef Tallow (~3% linoleic acid) – Rich in saturated fat, supports hormone production, and is ideal for cooking.
· Ghee (~2%) – Clarified butter with a high smoke point, packed with fat-soluble vitamins.
· Butter (~2%) – A clean, natural fat perfect for everyday use.
· Coconut Oil (~2%) – Low in linoleic acid and rich in healthy saturated fats.
· Extra Virgin Olive Oil (~9%) – A healthier option when choosing plant-based fats, though still best in moderation.
The Key Marker: Triglyceride-to-HDL Ratio
Instead of fixating on LDL, the best predictor of heart health is the triglyceride-to-HDL ratio:
· Low triglycerides + high HDL = Lower heart disease risk
· High triglycerides + low HDL = Higher heart disease risk (often seen in people on high-carb, processed food diets)
The ideal triglyceride-to-HDL ratio should be below 2:1, a marker strongly associated with longevity and cardiovascular health.
By eliminating high-linoleic acid seed oils and refined carbs and replacing them with animal-based, stable fats like tallow, ghee, and butter, you can drastically lower triglycerides, improve metabolic health, and reduce inflammation—without fearing cholesterol.
Cholesterol’s Role in Cell Membranes and Vitamin D Production
Cholesterol is not just a molecule floating in the blood—it is a fundamental structural component of every cell in the human body. It ensures:
- Membrane integrity and fluidity
- Proper cell signaling and function
- Vitamin D synthesis (which requires cholesterol and sun exposure)
- Immune system regulation and response
By lowering cholesterol artificially, we weaken these critical processes, making the body more vulnerable to disease, infection, and dysfunction.
Statins: The Dangerous Push to Lower Cholesterol
Statins are among the most prescribed drugs in the world, yet their benefits are overstated and their risks downplayed.
The Risks of Statins
1. Muscle Weakness and Pain – Statins inhibit CoQ10, a crucial enzyme for muscle function, leading to chronic fatigue and muscle deterioration (5).
2. Increased Diabetes Risk – Statins impair glucose metabolism, significantly raising the risk of type 2 diabetes (6).
3. Cognitive Decline – Statins reduce cholesterol in the brain, impairing memory and cognition.
4. Hormonal Disruption – Lowering LDL depletes testosterone and other vital hormones, leading to fatigue, depression, and sexual dysfunction.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that statin users had significantly lower testosterone and DHEA levels, suggesting long-term hormonal suppression (7).
Debunking the Myth: Why We Need to Rethink Cholesterol
Mainstream medicine has spent decades pushing the low-fat, cholesterol-lowering narrative, yet heart disease and metabolic disorders continue to rise. The real problem isn’t cholesterol—it’s inflammation, insulin resistance, and nutrient-poor diets.
A high-fat, animal-based diet rich in red meat, eggs, and whole foods:
· Boosts HDL and maintains low triglycerides
· Supports brain function and longevity
· Optimizes hormone production
· Strengthens cell membranes and immune function
· Reduces inflammation by eliminating seed oils and processed foods
Rather than fearing cholesterol, we should embrace it as a vital, life-sustaining nutrient.
Conclusion: The Truth About Cholesterol
The outdated narrative surrounding cholesterol is not supported by science. LDL is not inherently bad, and lowering it aggressively can have serious health consequences. Instead of obsessing over LDL levels, we should focus on reducing inflammation, improving metabolic health, and consuming nutrient-dense animal foods.
The best approach? Eat more high-quality animal fats, avoid seed oils and refined sugars, stay active, and support healthy cholesterol levels—because high cholesterol is a sign of vitality, not disease.
**Disclaimer:
The information provided in this newsletter is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medication. The opinions expressed are based on research and personal analysis but should not be taken as medical recommendations. By reading this content, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health decisions.
Scientific References
1. Schupf, N., et al. (2005). Prevalence of Dementia and Associated Risk Factors in Elderly Populations. JAMA Neurology.
2. Duell, P. B., et al. (2019). Statins and Cognitive Decline: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Neurology.
3. Ravnskov, U., et al. (2016). Lack of an Association or an Inverse Association Between Low-Density-Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Mortality in the Elderly: A Systematic Review. BMJ.
4. Ray, K. K., et al. (2019). LDL Cholesterol and Longevity: Evidence from Large Cohort Studies. Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons.
5. Okuyama, H., et al. (2015). Statins Stimulate Atherosclerosis and Heart Failure: Pharmacological Mechanisms. Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology.
6. Sattar, N., et al. (2010). Statins and Risk of Incident Diabetes. The Lancet.
7. Grossmann, M., et al. (2022). Statins and Testosterone Suppression: A Clinical Review. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.