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Cholesterol – Friend or Foe?

Cholesterol often gets a bad reputation. For years, it has been linked with heart disease and labelled as something we should fear. But the truth is more nuanced. Cholesterol is essential for life, playing a central role in hormone production, brain health, cell structure, and even immune defence.


The real challenge lies not in cholesterol itself, but in how it behaves in the body when affected by diet, lifestyle, and stress. Understanding this balance can help us support our overall wellbeing more effectively.


What is Cholesterol and Why Does It Matter?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. Far from being harmful, it is crucial for:

  • Producing hormones such as testosterone, oestrogen, and cortisol

  • Supporting vitamin D synthesis, which contributes to bone health and immune function

  • Building and maintaining flexible cell membranes

  • Creating bile acids, which help us digest dietary fats

Without cholesterol, our bodies simply would not function properly.

LDL vs. HDL: The Good, the Bad, and the Misunderstood


1. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – The Misunderstood One

LDL is often called “bad cholesterol,” but this is a simplification. LDL’s role is to transport cholesterol around the body, including to areas where it is needed for hormone production and repair.


Problems arise when LDL becomes oxidised (damaged by free radicals). Oxidised LDL can contribute to plaque formation in arteries, which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (Stocker & Keaney, 2004).


Factors such as smoking, highly processed foods, and chronic inflammation make LDL more likely to oxidise - so the issue lies less with LDL itself, and more with the environment in which it functions.


2. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – The Protective One

HDL is often described as “good cholesterol.” Its role is to carry excess cholesterol away from tissues and back to the liver, where it can be processed and removed. Research suggests that higher HDL levels are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.


3. Cholesterol and Hormone Production

Cholesterol is the raw material used to produce essential hormones, including:

  • Cortisol (helps the body respond to stress)

  • Testosterone (linked with muscle mass, energy, and libido)

  • Oestrogen and Progesterone (support menstrual health, bone density, and mood regulation)

Research in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism highlights cholesterol’s essential role in steroid hormone production, with too little cholesterol potentially leading to hormone imbalances (Miller & Bose, 2011).


Cholesterol and Immune Function

Few people realise that LDL cholesterol also supports the immune system. LDL particles can bind to and neutralise harmful bacteria and toxins, potentially reducing the severity of infections (Flegel et al., 1989).

Some studies even suggest that extremely low LDL levels may be linked with a higher risk of certain infections (Feingold & Grunfeld, 2012). This indicates that completely eliminating LDL cholesterol is neither possible nor desirable.


The Real Problem: Oxidised Cholesterol and Chronic Inflammation

The main issue is not cholesterol itself, but when LDL becomes oxidised and interacts with chronic inflammation. This can trigger immune responses and contribute to arterial plaque development.

Factors that increase oxidation and inflammation include:

  • Diets high in processed foods and refined sugars

  • Smoking and exposure to pollutants

  • Sedentary lifestyles

  • Chronic stress


Supporting Healthy Cholesterol Balance

While everyone’s health is unique, general lifestyle choices can help support cholesterol function and reduce harmful oxidation:

✅ Include healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and extra virgin olive oil

✅ Move regularly - walking, yoga, and strength training can all contribute

✅ Reduce refined sugar and processed foods

✅ Manage stress through mindfulness, breath work, or relaxation techniques


Final Thoughts

Cholesterol is not the enemy - it’s a vital component of hormone health, immune defence, and overall wellbeing. Rather than focusing solely on lowering cholesterol levels, it may be more helpful to consider lifestyle choices that reduce chronic inflammation and oxidative stress.


At Connected Chiropractic, we look at the bigger picture of health - considering not only movement and posture but also how factors like stress and lifestyle choices may influence the way your body feels and functions. If you’d like to explore a more holistic approach to wellbeing, we’re here to help guide you. Written by Dr Tommy-Lee McCafferty DC



References

  • Feingold, K. R., & Grunfeld, C. (2012). The role of lipoproteins in infection and immunity. Current Opinion in Lipidology.

  • Flegel, W. A., et al. (1989). LDL cholesterol and its role in immune defence. The Journal of Experimental Medicine.

  • Miller, W. L., & Bose, H. S. (2011). Steroid hormone synthesis and cholesterol. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

  • Stocker, R., & Keaney, J. F. (2004). Role of oxidative stress in cardiovascular disease. Physiological Reviews.

 
 
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