When it comes to health, cholesterol is often viewed as the enemy, something that needs to be lowered at all costs to reduce the risk of heart disease. But have you ever considered that cholesterol may actually play a role in preventing breast cancer?.

The Connection Between Cholesterol and Breast Cancer

Research has shown that women with high levels of HDL or “good” cholesterol have a lower risk of breast cancer compared to those with low levels of HDL cholesterol.

In fact, a study conducted in 2010 found that women with the highest levels of HDL cholesterol had a 67% lower risk of breast cancer compared to those with the lowest levels of HDL cholesterol.

So how does cholesterol help protect against breast cancer? One theory is that cholesterol helps regulate estrogen levels in the body.

Estrogen is known to play a role in the development of breast cancer, and when levels are too high, the risk of breast cancer increases. Cholesterol may help regulate estrogen levels by binding to it and preventing it from entering breast tissue.

The Role of Statins

Statins are a class of drugs commonly used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. Studies have shown that women taking statins may have a lower risk of breast cancer.

One study found that women who took statins for five years or more had a 20% lower risk of breast cancer compared to those who didn’t take statins.

The protective effect of statins may be due to the fact that they not only lower cholesterol levels but also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Inflammation is known to play a role in the development of cancer, so reducing inflammation in the body may help reduce the risk of cancer.

The Importance of a Healthy Diet

In addition to taking statins, maintaining a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Some foods that may help lower cholesterol levels include:.

Oats and oat bran
Almonds
Walnuts
Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna
Avocado
Olive oil

On the other hand, foods that are high in saturated and trans fats should be avoided or consumed in moderation. These include:.

Red meat
Butter and margarine
Full-fat dairy products
Fried foods
Baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and pastries

The Bottom Line

While cholesterol is often viewed as a negative thing, it may actually play a role in preventing breast cancer. Women with high levels of HDL cholesterol may have a lower risk of breast cancer, and taking statins may also help reduce the risk.

In addition to taking medications, a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may also help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of breast cancer.