Cholesterol plays an essential role in your body, helping to make hormones, cell membranes, and vitamin D. Cholesterol travels throughout your body through your blood in the form of lipoproteins, which contain fat. Since cholesterol is a fat-like substance and therefore insoluble in water, it comes in the form of lipoproteins.
These lipoproteins are spherical proteins that contain essential fats. There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
- Low-density lipoprotein
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up into plaque in your arteries, clogging them and restricting blood flow to the rest of your body.
When LDL plaque builds up in your blood vessels, it can trigger the formation of blood clots when they break off, increasing your risk of heart attack or stroke.
A stroke occurs when a blood clot, which may contain cholesterol, cuts off the blood supply to an area of the brain. This can cause temporary or sometimes permanent nerve damage, depending on how quickly the clot dissolves or is cleared. Immediate medical attention is important if a stroke is suspected.
- High-density lipoprotein
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL from the blood, preventing blockages and reducing the risk of stroke.
While your liver can make all the cholesterol your body needs to function, an estimated 20% of your cholesterol comes from the foods you eat. Dietary cholesterol is mainly found in eggs, red meat and poultry, and is not found in much plant-based foods or similar items.
Low cholesterol is a rare problem, as your liver is perfectly capable of making all the cholesterol your body needs to function properly.
When is cholesterol considered low?
Cholesterol levels are typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood, and there are specific guidelines for what levels of cholesterol are considered healthy.
For LDL cholesterol, levels below 100 mg/dL are generally considered optimal for reducing the risk of heart disease.
However, LDL cholesterol levels below 50 mg/dL can cause problems, leading to issues such as hormonal imbalances, impaired immune function, and neurological complications.
Similarly, HDL cholesterol should be maintained above 60 mg/dL to support heart health. HDL cholesterol levels below 40 mg/dL are considered low and can increase the risk of heart disease and other complications, as the body may not be able to effectively remove LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Low cholesterol is relatively rare, but when it occurs, it is often related to genetic factors or medical conditions that inhibit the body’s ability to produce or maintain normal cholesterol levels. It is important to monitor your cholesterol levels regularly, as both high and low levels can significantly impact your health.
Common Signs of Low Cholesterol
1. Anxiety and Depression
One of the first effects of low cholesterol is mood disturbances. Cholesterol is not only related to cardiovascular health, but also plays a role in brain function and the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate emotions. When cholesterol is low, serotonin levels also decrease, leading to anxiety, stress, and even depression.
You may find yourself becoming irritable, overly anxious, or feeling sad and unmotivated for no apparent reason. Some studies show that people with very low cholesterol levels are at higher risk for psychological problems and negative behaviors.
2. Fatigue and weakness
Cholesterol is an essential component for energy production at the cellular level. When cholesterol is insufficient, the body will not produce enough energy to maintain daily activities. This leads to a state of prolonged fatigue, lack of vitality, and a feeling of weakness even when you have had enough rest.
A lack of cholesterol affects the ability to transport and absorb some fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, K (which are essential for overall health). Therefore, fatigue is not just a small sign but can also be a warning of a serious nutritional deficiency inside.
3. Hormonal imbalance
Another important function of cholesterol is to act as a raw material for the synthesis of steroid hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol. When blood cholesterol levels are too low, the body will not be able to produce enough of these essential hormones, leading to endocrine disorders.
In women, symptoms may include irregular periods, decreased libido, and difficulty conceiving. In men, the condition can cause low testosterone levels, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and even loss of muscle mass. Hormonal imbalances also weaken your ability to cope with stress, making you more susceptible to stress, anxiety, and mood swings.
