Cholesterol Confusion What Should We Really Focus On

Cholesterol and Brain Health Confusion: What Should We Really Focus On?

Cholesterol and Brain Health Confusion

I was alerted to two conflicting articles around cholesterol’s impact on cognitive health. It continues to demonstrate how confusing media headlines are, and for most people, how cholesterol impacts our health.

The two conflicting views that emerged: one emphasising cholesterol’s vital role in our bodies and protecting against cognitive decline; the other linking high LDL cholesterol to dementia risks.

Read on or watch my latest live video…

The Vital Role of Cholesterol in Our Health

Cholesterol is needed by every cell in the body for survival: it is crucial for cell membrane integrity, for steroid hormone production, immunity and especially brain health—where 25% of all cholesterol that is produced is used to support cognitive function. Most people are unaware that the liver produces 75% of all the cholesterol in the bloodstream because it is so essential to health (the other 25% is from the diet, mostly saturated fat).

To reiterate: 25% of all cholesterol is found in the brain where it plays a role in memory and cognition. It is the LDL form that takes cholesterol to all parts of the body

The Lancet Study

On the other hand, a 2024 update to the Lancet Commission on Dementia has added two new potential risk factors: one stating that high LDL cholesterol could contribute to dementia by the production of fatty deposits in arteries forming plaques which could cause obstruction of blood flow to the brain.

Inflammation and Oxidation: The Real Culprits?

I have spent time and training looking at CVD risks and understanding that cholesterol may not be the villain it is made out to be. We know that damaged arteries – that can arise due to inflammation – may attract cholesterol to repair the damage. But cholesterol as a fatty substance can be easily oxidised creating the plaque.

Is the real issue here not the cholesterol itself which is acting as a protective mechanism, but the underlying inflammation and oxidation in our arteries?
Cholesterol might be unfairly blamed as the villain when it’s actually trying to repair damage caused by inflammation?

The medical field’s focus on cholesterol as a primary culprit often overlooks this broader context, driven by a pharmaceutical industry eager to promote statins. The global market for statins was worth $15 billion in 2021 and is forecast to be worth $22 billion by 2032.

A Holistic Approach: Diet Over Drugs

While statins can lower cholesterol, they come with their own set of risks, including the depletion of Coenzyme Q10, essential for muscle energy and overall cell health. It can be why those taking statins experience muscle weakness, fatigue and soreness. In my practice I encourage CoQ10 supplementation for those taking statins.

Instead of relying solely on medication, consider a more holistic approach. I encourage everyone to eliminate ultra-processed foods, sugars, and artificial ingredients from your diet.

Focus on natural foods—meats, fish, vegetables, pulses and whole grains—to truly protect your heart, brain and overall health..

Conclusion: Back to Basics for Better Health

In conclusion, rather than succumbing to pharmaceutical solutions, let’s return to basics. Prioritise a clean diet and healthy lifestyle choices to safeguard your well-being. Remember, don’t just follow the headlines—dig deeper, and make informed decisions about your health.

Caroline

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Again, thanks for reading.

Keep your eye out for more articles and Peyton Principles in the media.

Caroline

A little more about me…

Providing expert, personalised, health advice utilising 10 years of nutritional therapy and naturopathy experience with a strong emphasis on digestion and gut health. Zoom or face to face Consultations.

I also develop and deliver well-being in the workplace workshops.