🔍 Rethinking Cholesterol: Dispelling Misconceptions 🧠

Cholesterol has long been demonised as a major risk factor for heart disease, dating back to Ancel Keys' 1950s study. This led to the widespread adoption of low-fat diets. However, recent research challenges this narrative. It turns out that low-fat diets may actually shorten lifespan, as fats and cholesterol play crucial roles in hormone regulation, brain health, and tissue repair. The low-fat trend, coupled with the proliferation of processed foods and chemicals, has had detrimental effects on our health.

To maintain healthy blood lipids, it's essential to pay attention to the types of fats you consume. While many have vilified animal fats in the past, emerging research suggests that they play a crucial role in supporting overall health, including cholesterol metabolism. Opt for sources of healthy animal fats such as fatty fish like salmon or mackerel, grass-fed beef, pasture-raised poultry, and eggs from free-range chickens. These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve lipid profiles. In addition to incorporating healthy animal fats into your diet, it's equally important to minimise the intake of inflammation-triggering foods. Refined carbohydrates and sugars are notorious for causing spikes in blood sugar levels, which can lead to inflammation and dyslipidemia (abnormal levels of lipids in the blood). Similarly, reducing your intake of added sugars, such as those found in sugary beverages, processed snacks, and desserts, can help stabilise blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.

Stress management is crucial. Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and inflammation, both of which can impact cholesterol levels and overall heart health. Engage in stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature.

Liver health is often overlooked but essential for cholesterol metabolism. A healthy liver helps regulate cholesterol production and removal from the body. Support liver function by limiting alcohol intake, avoiding excessive consumption of processed foods and toxins, and incorporating liver-supportive foods like cruciferous vegetables, garlic, and turmeric into your diet.

Other ways to support healthy cholesterol levels are to opt for a whole foods diet, spend time outdoors, and ensure regular bowel movements.

Cholesterol isn't the whole story; it's merely a piece of the puzzle.