Is Too Low Cholesterol Dangerous?

Many people are doing everything they can to lower cholesterol levels as much as possible because cholesterol is viewed as "bad". Too low cholesterol levels are not necessarily a good thing and there is reason for caution.

Cholesterol is essential for many normal bodily functions, such as the production of vitamin D, steroid hormones, stress hormones, and bile acids for digestion. It also forms a membrane around all cells and is critical for the regeneration of damaged endothelial cells.

Typically, when you do not consume enough from the foods in your diet the body produces cholesterol through formation in the liver to meet the bodies needs. The amount of cholesterol in your diet directly determines how much the liver produces. The more cholesterol rich foods you consume the less produced by your body. There are cases where this process does not function correctly.

Back in 1994, the American Heart Association issued a statement noting increased deaths from trauma, hemorrhagic stroke, respiratory diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases for individuals with levels below 160 mg/dl.

Since 1994, several studies have linked low levels with depression, suicide, anxiety, impulsivity, and aggression. One psychologist suggested having too low cholesterol alters brain cell function. The brain cells with low cholesterol levels may have fewer receptors for the mood-elevating neurotransmitter serotonin which may be one reason low levels increases rates of depression.

With the rapidly rising use of medications, such as statin drugs, cholesterol levels are decreasing into potentially dangerous territory. Work with your physician to ensure you maintain healthy cholesterol levels appropriate for you.

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