Conundrum of Cholesterol Management and Health Implications of Low Cholesterol Levels: A Narrative Review
Lowering cholesterol for the health benefit of dyslipidemia is a well-known fact, but emerging evidence highlights risks associated with excessive lowering. The use of lipid-lowering agents to reduce cardiovascular risk is well-established; however, excessive cholesterol reduction has raised concer...
Saved in:
| Main Authors: | , , |
|---|---|
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Nepal Medical Association
2025-07-01
|
| Series: | Journal of Nepal Medical Association |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.jnma.com.np/jnma/index.php/jnma/article/view/9166 |
| Tags: |
Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
|
| Summary: | Lowering cholesterol for the health benefit of dyslipidemia is a well-known fact, but emerging
evidence highlights risks associated with excessive lowering. The use of lipid-lowering agents to
reduce cardiovascular risk is well-established; however, excessive cholesterol reduction has raised
concerns about the potential health implications of excessively low cholesterol levels. This review
explores the "cholesterol paradox," highlighting the dual nature of cholesterol as both a contributor to cardiovascular risk and an essential component for cellular integrity, hormone synthesis, brain function, and vitamin D production. A systematic search of PubMed, Google Scholar, JAMA, and
Cochrane Library for eligible studies was conducted from 1980 until December 1, 2024. Evidence
suggests that excessively low cholesterol levels may impair cell membrane integrity, neurotransmission, and immune function. This review underscores the need for balanced clinical approach to cholesterol management rather than solely aiming for aggressive reduction, ensuring both cardiovascular protection and broader systemic health.
|
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 0028-2715 1815-672X |