Cholesterol: Myths about Good and Bad

Cholesterol is a recurring topic in natural health. In this article, we demystify good and bad cholesterol to improve your knowledge about natural health.

Cholesterol is neither “Good” nor “Bad”

Since 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 places as one of the leading anti-aging doctors in the United States, 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 pose a potential problem are the so-called small LDL particles, because they can pass through arterial walls and if they oxidize, a process also known as rancid, they can cause damage and inflammation. (hence the use of coconut oil instead of olive oil) Therefore, it could be said 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 won’t tell you much. “The ratios between LDL and HDL are more important.” Marc Bony, DC