Cholesterol (HDL, LDL)

Cholesterol (HDL, LDL) is often referred to as "good cholesterol" (High Density Lipoproteins) and "bad cholesterol" (Low Density Lipoproteins) due to a slight association between their ratio and heart disease, but in fact, the ratio that suggests freedom from heart disease suggests susceptibility to cancer 1. LDL, often referred to as "bad," is extremely beneficial because it is used as the source for producing progesterone and DHEA 1.

Research has shown that people who have been chronically deficient in cholesterol have a remarkable absence of atherosclerosis, and mice genetically deficient in pituitary hormones, which include growth hormone, live 2-3 times longer than normal mice 2. This suggests that cholesterol plays a crucial role in maintaining health and longevity. However, some researchers have found that mice without pituitaries, and thus without growth hormone, live longer than normal mice when given a thyroid supplement to maintain their metabolism 2.

The distinction between HDL and LDL is not as clear-cut as previously thought. Both are involved in detoxification, and the protein that helps carry cholesterol has anti-stress and antiviral activity 5. HDL has more specific anti-toxic effects, while LDL is primarily responsible for delivering cholesterol to the brain, ovaries, testicles, adrenal glands, and skin 2. Toxins tend to increase HDL relative to LDL, but chlorinated hydrocarbons, radiation, estrogen, and alcohol will increase HDL relative to LDL due to its anti-toxic effects 2.

Low-density cholesterol (LDL) is a protective source of cholesterol, and low levels of LDL increase the risk of cancer and dementia 4. On the other hand, high levels of HDL are often associated with stress and can be increased by estrogen and alcohol 4. Triglycerides are not as harmful if they are saturated, but polyunsaturated triglycerides can interfere with the function of cholesterol 4.

Interfering with cholesterol synthesis can lead to muscle problems due to the lack of Coenzyme Q10, which is essential for energy production 3. Statins, which lower cholesterol levels, can have negative effects on the body, including muscle problems and increased risk of cancer 3.