Sometimes cholesterol can be too low. Small amounts of cholesterol perform important functions such as hormone production. Low cholesterol can affect these processes and lead to conditions such as depression.
Low cholesterol is also known as hypocholesterolemia.
People often discuss “high cholesterol” as negative, usually referring to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. At high levels, LDL cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.
However, a small amount of LDL is still needed to perform essential functions.
What causes low cholesterol?
Here are the most common causes:
1. Genetics
Low cholesterol is not always caused by lifestyle habits. For some people, it is a genetic problem.
A rare condition called familial hypobetalipoproteinemia can cause LDL cholesterol levels to be abnormally low. People with this condition are born with a different lipid processing system, resulting in very low blood cholesterol. While it may sound like a “good thing,” in reality, very low cholesterol can be harmful to health, affecting hormone production, brain function, and neurological health.
It is worth noting that these genetic conditions are often difficult to detect without regular blood tests or abnormal health signs.
2. Medical conditions that affect cholesterol levels
Some underlying medical conditions can lower cholesterol levels in the body. Specifically:
2.1. Hyperthyroidism
When the thyroid gland is overactive, the body’s metabolism is faster than normal. This causes the body to “burn” lipids at a high rate, leading to low blood cholesterol levels. Although low cholesterol in this case is a consequence rather than the main cause, it can still cause unwanted effects.
People with hyperthyroidism often have accompanying signs such as anxiety, rapid weight loss, excessive sweating and rapid heartbeat.
2.2. Liver Disease
The liver is the main organ responsible for producing cholesterol. When the liver is damaged by diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis or liver toxicity, the ability to synthesize cholesterol will be severely affected.
In people with liver disease, low cholesterol not only causes the body to lack hormones but also easily leads to fatigue, weakness and reduced ability to fight harmful agents.
2.3. Malnutrition
The body needs enough energy and healthy fats to maintain basic life functions, including cholesterol production. When you eat too poorly, lack calories or lack essential fatty acids, the liver will not have enough “raw materials” to produce cholesterol.
Malnutrition, especially in the elderly, people who diet too much or people with chronic diseases, can lead to low cholesterol accompanied by immune deficiency and hormonal disorders.
3. Factors related to lifestyle and diet
We often hear recommendations to reduce fat and limit cholesterol to protect the heart. However, in some cases, extreme diets are counterproductive and can push cholesterol levels too low.
3.1. Strict Diet
Many people are afraid of high cholesterol and eliminate almost all fat from their diet. This inadvertently causes the body to lack good fats necessary for the synthesis of cholesterol and hormones.
A diet that is too poor in fat, especially completely eliminating unsaturated fats from fish, olive oil, avocados, nuts, etc., will negatively affect overall health. In the long run, the body will not only lack cholesterol but also be at risk of micronutrient malnutrition and endocrine disorders.
3.2. Sedentary Lifestyle or Chronic Stress
A sedentary lifestyle, chronic stress, or poor sleep can also affect cholesterol levels, although they are not the main causes. Stress disrupts the nervous and endocrine systems, which indirectly affect cholesterol production.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Low Cholesterol
1. Chronic Fatigue and Weakness
Feeling tired, lacking energy, or exhausted is one of the most common signs of low cholesterol. Cholesterol plays an essential role in hormone production and providing energy to cells. When the body does not have enough cholesterol, the energy-producing process is disrupted, making you feel sluggish, even after adequate rest or a good night’s sleep.
Many people with low cholesterol report feeling lethargic, having trouble concentrating, having difficulty moving, and even losing motivation to do everyday activities.
2. Dizziness and Confusion
The brain is the organ that is directly affected when cholesterol levels are too low. Cholesterol is not only a component of nerve cell membranes, but also helps maintain the stability of nerve functions.
When cholesterol is deficient, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Sudden dizziness when changing positions
- Lightheadedness, unclear mind
- Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, reduced ability to process information
People with chronically low cholesterol levels are even at higher risk of problems related to memory loss and dementia in old age.
3. Mood Changes and Depression
This is a symptom that few people associate with cholesterol. However, cholesterol is a key factor in the production of serotonin – a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and emotions.
When cholesterol levels drop too low, serotonin production is disrupted, leading to:
- Feelings of anxiety and restlessness for no apparent reason
- Irritability, mood swings
- Loss of interest in things that used to bring joy
- Tendency to be sad, depressed, and even depressed
Some studies show that people with chronically low cholesterol are at higher risk of psychological problems, even negative thoughts. This emphasizes the role of cholesterol not only in physical health but also in mental health.
