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- Is cholesterol bad for you?
Until a few months ago, I assumed everyone was under the belief that high cholesterol levels were harmful.
But after going down a carnivore-diet rabbit hole, I found that was not the case.
It turns out this topic is divided into two camps.
Camp #1: Cholesterol is bad for you.
This is the majority.
Mainstream medicine agrees that high cholesterol and LDL-C increases risk of heart disease.
To go one step further, new research has found that there is something far more predictive of cardiovascular disease than simply LDL-C, the “bad” cholesterol:
ApoB.
Dr. Peter Attia, a top longevity expert, notes ApoB is a more precise marker for cardiovascular risk than LDL alone, as mentioned in his book, “Outlive.”
He believes ApoB is a better indicator because it measures the number of cholesterol-carrying particles, not just cholesterol levels.
And says these particles are BAD because:
Cholesterol particles can lead to plaque buildup in arteries.
Plaque buildup narrows and hardens arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing blood pressure.
If plaque ruptures, can cause blood clots, leading to heart attack, stroke.
Attia has also stated that there’s never been a documented case of someone dying from cardiovascular disease with an ApoB level of 30 mg/dL or lower.
This isn’t the only thing he says contributes to cardiovascular disease, but it’s top of his list.
Let’s see what the other guys are saying…
Camp #2: High Cholesterol danger is a myth.
Dr. Ken Berry, Dr. Shawn Baker and Joe Rogan are leading the charge on this one.
It is also a heavy movement in the carnivore diet community.
They believe elevated cholesterol, LDL, and ApoB aren't harmful but rather a myth by big food companies.
They argue that cholesterol's bad reputation stems from flawed studies published in the 1950s and 60s and marketing campaigns by big food companies.
They cite more recent research that highlights the importance of inflammation, particle size, and overall metabolic health rather than cholesterol levels alone.
This movement claims a red-meat, low-carb, high-fat diet can be safe and effective, but only if you follow the rules.
They compare it to sticks and fire: sticks are necessary to make a fire, but they don't cause it—you need a "spark" to ignite it.
The sticks would be cholesterol or saturated fats.
The “spark” would be chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and poor metabolic health.
What do both camps agree on?
They both state that metabolic health is the best prevention for overall health and longevity.
Metabolic health means your body functions well, with:
Low inflammation,
Good insulin sensitivity,
Stable blood sugar, and
No chronic disease
They both agree high Glucose, Insulin, and HbA1c levels are bad.
And they also agree that high Triglycerides and low HDL are bad.
So how do you know who’s right?
Both camps agree that reducing plaque is crucial for heart health.
They just differ on what CAUSES plaque build-up.
So if plaque is the concern, test for that.
It’s not cheap or convenient, but it’s effective…
CT Angiogram Scan
Unlike a calcium score test, a CT Angiogram is better than a CAC scan because it detects soft plaque before it hardens, catching issues early.
Attia advises focusing on non-calcified plaques, as they can cause clots, leading to heart attacks or strokes.
This scan reveals both calcium and dangerous soft plaques that can cause serious problems.
You can even go one step further and send results to Cleerly or HeartFlow who use AI and 3D analysis for even earlier detection.
Measure year-over year. Evaluate the trend. Consult with your doctor and make adjustments accordingly.
So what should you do?
Live life how you want, just know the risks.
If cardiovascular disease runs in your family, it would be wise take extra precautions and ensure you are metabolically healthy.
Get regular bloodwork, check for genotypes to see if you’re at higher risk (like ApoE), monitor blood pressure, and get a CT Angiogram Scan after the age of 40.
As always, consult with your doctor, get multiple opinions, weigh you options and do what’s best for you and your lifestyle.
Cheers,
Darryl
P.S. If you want to ask more questions and work on optimizing your health, join my free online Skool group here.