Cholesterol is neither “Good” nor “Bad”

Cholesterol is Neither “Good” nor “Bad”

Now that we have defined what good and bad cholesterol is, it must be said that there is actually only one type of cholesterol. Ron Rosedale, MD, is considered in many circles to be one of the leading anti-aging doctors in the United States, and he does an excellent job explaining this concept:

“Realize that LDL and HDL are lipoproteins—fats combined with proteins. There is only one cholesterol. There is no such thing as ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol.”

Cholesterol is cholesterol. It combines with other fats and proteins to be transported through the bloodstream, as fat and our blood do not mix very well. Therefore, fatty substances must be transported from our tissues and cells using proteins. LDL and HDL are forms of proteins and are far from being just cholesterol. In fact, we know that there are many of these protein and fat particles. LDL particles come in many sizes, and the longer LDL particles are not problematic. The only ones that represent a potential problem are the so-called small LDL particles, because they can pass through the arterial walls and if they oxidize, a process also known as rancidification, they can cause damage and inflammation. (hence the use of coconut oil instead of olive oil) Therefore, one could say that there is “good LDL” and “bad LDL.” Also, some HDL particles are better than others. So knowing the total cholesterol level tells you very little. Even knowing the levels of LDL and HDL will not tell you much. “The ratios between LDL and HDL are more important.” Marc Bony, DC