Is your cholesterol harming you?
Understanding Cholesterol: Beyond the Numbers
Cholesterol is one of the most frequently discussed topics at the doctor's surgery today. Despite its prominence, very few people truly understand the physiology of these nuanced energy molecules in our bodies. Arguably, this precise lack of understanding leads to inaccurate interpretations of individual cholesterol panels and larger population-based studies.
Most healthcare providers don't pay attention to the behaviour of cholesterol, as demonstrated by the lipid panel, beyond simply categorising it as 'low' or 'high' according to lab ranges. Its complex absorption by the gut into the thoracic duct, first appearing as chylomicrons and subsequently in the more stable forms of HDL, IDL, LDL, and their subtypes, hints that biochemistry cannot be reduced to mere high and low lab ranges. The intricate web of understanding cholesterol is interconnected with lipoprotein lipase, insulin secretion, Lp(a), ApoB100, ApoA, and the glycocalyx, to name but a few.
That is, if one doesn't even bring up the subject of leptin and circadian rhythm, both of which are major influencers of cholesterol metabolism. Foods, of course, are our intuitive source of cholesterol, but their effects on our lipid profile are embedded within mitochondrial function, which is complex and non-linear in most individuals.
Toxins from our environment, including those we call 'food', are a major mitochondrial disruptor. From PM2.5 in the air to excessive linoleic acid (LA) in the foods we consume, they all clog up the channels in the mitochondrial membrane, prohibiting good electron (energy) flow. This is like an un-serviced car, where every litre of fuel generates more inflammation and rust in the engine than the kilometre it's supposed to travel.
So, your 'unhealthy' cholesterol might actually be healthy, or your 'healthy' cholesterol might be unhealthy. More importantly, it tells the well-studied health practitioner that something significant is happening inside your body – and understanding what this is may be the best information you can be equipped with on your journey to achieving optimal health.
To me, when I see a lipid (cholesterol) panel, I see the body’s sensitivity to the hormone insulin. I see how well energy is stored, released into the bloodstream and consequently utilised by the tissue needing it. I also gain understanding of their inflammatory state, and as to whether the arteries are in the state repair or, in some unfortunate cases, breaking down. Much to people’s surprise, with the appropriate understanding of physiology, this can be done with good accuracy simply with the basic Medicare-rebated lipid panel.