And cholesterol that is too low can be associated with significant health risks, including hepatitis C and certain types of cancer. Thus, the assessment of cholesterol balance becomes a complex and important matter in maintaining general health.
Cholesterol, a lipid substance essential for the functioning of the body, is involved in the construction of cell membranes, the synthesis of hormones and the digestive process of fats. High levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol are generally thought to increase the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.
However, research shows that cholesterol levels that are too low can also signal other serious health problems. A study published in the scientific journal “Journal of Hepatology” found a link between low cholesterol levels and the spread of hepatitis C. It suggests that cholesterol plays an important role in the optimal functioning of the liver and in the fight against viral infections.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that the body needs to function normally. The liver produces cholesterol and it is also present in certain foods.
The substance has a number of essential functions in the body, including the synthesis of bile acids, hormones and vitamin D. The main function of cholesterol is to maintain the fluidity and integrity of cell membranes.
However, high cholesterol is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, so it is important that people try to keep their cholesterol levels within healthy parameters.
Doctors consider several factors when evaluating a person’s lipid profile. These include:
Rare genetic diseases, such as abetalipoproteinemia, which cause low cholesterol, can have the following effects on the body:
According to an animal study, low cholesterol can lower serotonin and cause aggression. A study that included human participants indicated that there may be a link between low cholesterol and aggression and suicide attempts. However, both studies have limitations and further research is needed.
A study published in the journal “Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention” identified a possible correlation between low cholesterol and increased risk of prostate cancer. Although the exact link requires further research, it is believed that cholesterol may play a role in the functioning of the immune system and cells.
According to another research, low cholesterol can increase a person’s risk of death. Another study found an association between low cholesterol, liver dysfunction and cancer death.
Finally, a research review recommended that healthcare professionals monitor patients taking cholesterol-lowering drugs called PCSK9 inhibitors.
While high cholesterol is common, low cholesterol is less common.
“Hypocholesterolemia” is the medical term for low cholesterol. Hypocholesterolemia can occur due to hereditary conditions, but it can have other causes.
Some genetic conditions that can cause low cholesterol are:
These rare conditions occur because of genetic mutations involved in the way the body processes fat. They can cause severe symptoms if doctors don’t diagnose them early.
“Hypolipidemia” is another term used to describe low cholesterol levels. In addition to genetic factors, there may be more common causes of hypolipidemia, including:
Another cause of low cholesterol can be cholesterol-lowering medications. Additionally, a person’s HDL cholesterol levels may be too low.
Experts believe that the following factors can cause low HDL:
A doctor can diagnose low cholesterol using blood tests.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the desired lipid profile levels are as follows:
If a person’s HDL is too low or their total or LDL cholesterol is lower than average, a doctor may diagnose low cholesterol.
Doctors may notice signs of rare genetic diseases that cause low cholesterol early in a person’s life. As a result, they may recommend genetic testing to help diagnose a condition.
Doctors can treat genetic conditions that cause low cholesterol with dietary changes and supplements. Treatment may include high doses of vitamin E, dietary fats, and other fat-soluble vitamins.
If the cholesterol level reaches low levels due to medication, a doctor can assess the dose or recommend an alternative medication, writes doctorulzilei.ro.
2023-08-08 22:44:48
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