Cholesterol is well known for its contributing role in plaque forming in the arteries and the ensuing cardiovascular disease. Lesser known are the facts that this compound is actually necessary for functions in the body and that there is no established Recommended Dietary Allowance for cholesterol. Being educated about cholesterol is the first line of defense in maintaining a heart-healthy diet.
Myth: Cholesterol is Found in Most Fats
Fact: Cholesterol is present only in animal fats. Because cholesterol is manufactured in the liver of animals, vegetable products--even saturated fats--do not contain cholesterol. However, the publication from the National Institutes of Health called "Lowering Your Diet with Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes" emphasizes that a diet high in saturated or trans fats does contribute to a higher production of cholesterol in the body. The recommendations from the American Heart Association are to limit total fat intake to 25 to 35 percent of daily calories.
Myth: Cholesterol Contributes Nothing Beneficial to the Body
Fact: Dr. Helmut Schrott, director of the University of Iowa Lipid Research Clinic, confirms cholesterol does have necessary functions in the human body. It is needed for the health of cell walls and for the production of the sex hormones, estrogen and testosterone. The body produces about 1,000 mg per day to meet these needs.
Myth: Because Cholesterol is Needed in the Body, it Must be Needed in the Diet
Fact: The body makes all the cholesterol it needs, so there is never a need to obtain any in the diet. There is no established recommended intake for cholesterol. Vegans, who eat no animal products, get no cholesterol from their diet and suffer no consequences.
Myth: Good Cholesterol (HDL) Should Be Eaten to Raise Blood HDL Levels
Fact: HDL (high density lipoprotein) describes packages made in the liver combining cholesterol with some other fats and protein for transport. When more proteins are present, the packages are high density; when more lipids are in the package, they are low density (LDL) lipoproteins. The American Heart Association article "Cholesterol" explains that the HDL packages are called "good cholesterol" because they are believed to carry cholesterol away from the arteries, reducing plaque. Cholesterol is not found in the diet as HDL or LDL; other strategies must be employed to raise good cholesterol levels.
Myth: Diet Is the Only Factor Affecting Cholesterol Levels
Fact: Other factors described in "Lowering Your Cholesterol with Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes" such as genetics, being overweight, age, gender and physical activity affect serum cholesterol level. Medications can be used to reduce elevated levels that are resistant to conservative therapies. Maintaining an ideal body weight and incorporating physical activity into lifestyle also may help keep levels below 200 mg/dL as recommended by the American Heart Association.
