For decades, we have been told that high cholesterol is one of the leading causes of heart disease. As a result, millions of people around the world take medications to lower their cholesterol levels.

However, there are still many myths surrounding cholesterol that need to be debunked. Here are five common myths about cholesterol and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: All Cholesterol Is Bad

Not all cholesterol is bad for your health. Cholesterol is a vital compound that is produced by your liver and used to build healthy cells, hormones, and other essential substances.

However, there are two types of cholesterol – LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein).

LDL is often called “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease.

On the other hand, HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove the LDL from your bloodstream, reducing your risk of heart disease. It is essential to have both types of cholesterol, but in balance.

Myth 2: Eating Cholesterol Increases Your Blood Cholesterol levels

For years, we have been told that eating foods high in cholesterol such as eggs and shrimp can increase your blood cholesterol levels.

However, recent studies have shown that dietary cholesterol has a minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people.

What really raises your cholesterol levels is trans and saturated fats that are found in fried foods, processed meats, and other unhealthy foods.

So, it is better to focus on reducing your intake of these harmful fats rather than worrying about dietary cholesterol intake.

Related Article 10 myths about cholesterol that keep you from living your best life!

Myth 3: All People With High Cholesterol Are at Risk for Heart Disease

Although high cholesterol levels increase your risk of heart disease, not everyone with high cholesterol is at risk. Other factors like age, family history, blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes also affect your heart disease risk.

Therefore, it is essential to consider your overall health and lifestyle rather than focusing solely on your cholesterol levels.

Myth 4: Statins Are the Only Way to Lower Cholesterol

Statins are a class of drugs that are used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. They work by blocking the liver’s production of cholesterol. However, they come with some adverse side effects like muscle pain, liver damage, and memory loss.

Fortunately, there are many natural ways to lower your cholesterol levels. Eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking are some of the effective ways to manage your cholesterol levels without medicating.

Myth 5: The Lower Your Cholesterol Levels, the Better

Many people believe that the lower your cholesterol levels, the better, but this is not entirely true. According to recent research, there is a ‘U-shaped’ curve relationship between cholesterol levels and heart disease risk.

People with very low levels of cholesterol are at increased risk of heart disease, just as those with high levels. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain your cholesterol levels within the optimal range for your age, gender, and overall health status.

Final Thoughts

Cholesterol is an essential compound that plays many vital roles in our bodies. Although high cholesterol levels increase your risk of heart disease, it’s not the only factor that contributes to your risk.

It’s important to consider other factors like age, family history, blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes.

By debunking these five common cholesterol myths, you can empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to manage your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease naturally.