Can your cholesterol be too low?

Cholesterol has gotten a bad rap due to its association with high cholesterol levels and cardiovascular disease. But the fact is that your body needs cholesterol to sustain life. Cholesterol is used for several important purposes in your body, one of which is the creation of cell membranes. Cell membranes are like mesh bags; they keep your cell parts together and decide what products get in and out of the cells.

We all know that high cholesterol is bad. Elevated low density lipoid levels (LDL) are associated with atherosclerosis and an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases. But what about total cholesterol levels that are too low? Can that become a problem?

Studies at the Mayo Clinic have revealed that a too-low cholesterol level in cancer patients is associated with an increased risk of death. While it didn't appear to increase the risk of getting cancer, a depressed ability to build healthy cells may contribute to an inability to recover from an illness such as cancer, or the side effects of cancer treatments.

Researchers also believe that cholesterol levels are linked to how the brain produces serotonin, a mood regulator that makes you feel happy. Low cholesterol can cause a decrease in serotonin, thus leading to depression and anxiety. A South Korea study found that depressed patients with a too-low cholesterol level were more likely to commit suicide.

Several reports have been published that state levels below 180 or 160 mg/dL are associated with increased morbidity. Among causes of death are hemorrhagic stroke, respiratory infections, and infectious diseases. There are sources batting for either side of this. Many of the studies done tested the cholesterol levels of those already found to have these diseases. This suggests that overly low cholesterol was a symptom of the severe illness rather than a cause.

In addition to total cholesterol levels being too low, low HDL (high density lipoid) levels can reduce your body's ability to naturally rid itself of LDL cholesterol particles. Having low LDL levels isn't enough; eating heart-healthy fats such as those found in avocados and nuts is important to raising your HDL levels so your body can protect itself against damage LDL particles do.

When it comes to cholesterol, compromise is key. Balancing a low LDL level with a high HDL level is imperative to sustaining healthy body functions. As always, the best way to do this isn't by charting numbers, it's by eating healthy foods, staying physically fit, and working with your doctor to develop the most effective health plan for your individual needs.