1. We don’t know what a healthy total cholesterol number is, or even if there is one. If it exists, it might be just north of 200.
2. Some cholesterol actually helps to “patch” damaged blood vessels, so it might not be the demon we’ve made it.
3. Statins, which block the enzyme HMG-CoA Reductase to block cholesterol production, also unfortunately block CoQ10 production – vital for optimum cellular energy.
4. You could never eat another drop of cholesterol in your life and still have high levels, based on the body’s production response to diet, physical activity or the lack thereof, and stress.
5. Cholesterol is necessary for the production of steroid hormones like testosterone & prednisone. It’s also used to make the important and now-famous vitamin D.
6. HDL stands for “high-density lipoprotein” & LDL stands for “low-density lipoprotein,” so these are lipid/protein combinations.
7. The ratio of HDL (often labeled “good cholesterol”) to LDL (often labeled the “bad cholesterol”) is more important than total cholesterol.
8. Cholesterol is an important component of cell membranes, which regulate cellular permeability and protect organelles like mitochondria (which make cellular energy) and lysosomes (which dispose of cellular waste).
9. Saturated fat (like fatty animal meats) & trans fats (like fake butters) drive up cholesterol levels more than dietary cholesterol.
10. Red yeast rice, made by fermenting red rice, contains statins just like some statin prescription drugs, & can be effective in reducing cholesterol.
11. Soluble fiber in oatmeal, apples, citrus fruits, chia seed, flax seed, lima beans, & kidney beans reduces LDL cholesterol in one of the healthiest manners.
Thomas C. Jensen is an exercise physiologist, nutritionist, and a nationally certified personal trainer through both the National Strength and Conditioning Association and the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He is a summa cum laude graduate of Harding University and a member of the Alpha Chi National Honor Society. As a wellness speaker and franchisor, he has shared his expertise in health and fitness with diverse audiences. He has been professionally training and consulting clients of all ages and backgrounds, for both health and human performance, for over 20 years. In March of 2004, he launched Elect Wellness, a thriving home-delivered personal training and nutrition coaching company, which has since expanded into an effective franchise system.
