Cholesterol - Biological Function

Introduction

Cholesterol (despite its bad reputation) is essential to the function of the human body.  Unnecessarily lowering Cholesterol below optimal levels can cause detrimental effects on the body.  This section outlines the essential function of Cholesterol.

Many of Cholesterol’s essential functions arise from its role as a precursor for Steroid Hormones.  So-called “Cholesterol deficiency symptoms” may occur in persons whose serum Cholesterol levels fall to levels below 160 mg/dL.

Cardiovascular System

 Optimal serum Cholesterol levels help to prevent some types of Cerebrovascular Diseases and sub-optimal Cholesterol levels have been associated with an increased risk of Cerebrovascular Diseases.  ^[1]

Cells

 Cholesterol is an essential component of Cell Membranes:  ^[2]

 Cholesterol fine tunes Cell Membrane fluidity under constantly fluctuating conditions of dietary Fat intake.

            Caution:  excess Cholesterol can cause Cell Membranes to become too rigid.

 Cholesterol is a particularly important constituent of the Myelin Sheath that insulates Neurons.

 Cholesterol manufactured for use in Cell Membranes is manufactured in response to demand from the Cell Membranes themselves.