Low-density lipoproteins, also known as LDL, or "bad," cholesterol, contribute to dangerous plaque buildup in the arteries. High levels of LDL cholesterol increase your risk for heart disease. Very low levels of LDL cholesterol may increase your risk for some other health problems, however.
Cancer
In a study published in August 2008 in the "Canadian Medical Association Journal," researchers from the Chinese University of Hong Kong found a correlation between very low LDL and very high cholesterol levels and cancer in diabetic subjects. Patients with LDL cholesterol levels below 108 mg/dL and above 146.6 mg/dL had a higher risk of developing cancer within five years than subjects with LDL cholesterol levels between 108 and 146.6 mg/dL. In a study published in October 2009 in "Diabetes Care," the same researchers from the Chinese University of Hong Kong found that statin use may reduce the impact of low LDL levels on cancer risk.
Depression and Anxiety
Low levels of LDL cholesterol may increase your risk of depression and anxiety, notes MayoClinic.com. A study published in May 1999 in "Psychosomatic Medicine" found an association between low lipid and lipoprotein concentrations and depression and anxiety in healthy young adult women.
Preterm Birth
Very low levels of LDL cholesterol during pregnancy may increase the risk of low birth weight and preterm birth, according to MayoClinic.com. A study published in October 2007 in "Pediatrics," found an association between low total serum cholesterol and preterm delivery.
Ideal LDL Cholesterol Levels
Health organizations do not provide a minimum recommended LDL cholesterol level. LDL cholesterol levels under 100 mg/dL are ideal for average adults, while adults with very high risk of heart disease should aim for LDL cholesterol levels below 70 mg/dL, notes MayoClinic.com. HDL, or "good," cholesterol levels above 60 mg/dL may reduce your risk for heart disease, according to the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide.
References
- "Canadian Medical Association Journal"; Independent Associations Between Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Cancer Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus; X Yang, et al.; August 2008
- "Diabetes Care"; Low LDL Cholesterol, Albuminuria, and Statins for the Risk of Cancer in Type 2 Diabetes; X Yang, et al.; October 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Cholesterol Level: Can It Be Too Low?; Thomas Behrenbeck; August 2010
- "Psychosomatic Medicine"; Relations of Trait Depression and Anxiety to Low Lipid and Lipoprotein Concentrations in Healthy Young Adult Women; Edward C. Suarez; May 1999
- "Pediatrics"; Adverse Birth Outcome Among Mothers With Low Serum Cholesterol; RJ Edison, et al.; October 2007
