The Truth Behind Cholesterol, Statins, and Cardiovascular Disease
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Episode Summary
In this eye-opening episode of the Foundational Health podcast, Dr. Kevin unravels the myths surrounding cholesterol and its supposed role in heart disease. Often vilified, LDL cholesterol is shown here as more of a "firefighter" than an "arsonist," arriving at sites of arterial inflammation to help repair and protect. The real culprit behind heart disease? Chronic inflammation, driven by processed foods, sugar, and harmful lifestyle habits. We dive into the critical role of cholesterol in cell health, hormone production, immune function, and even brain protection, while also exposing the risks of artificially lowering LDL with statins. From common side effects like muscle pain and digestive issues to long-term concerns like insulin resistance, dementia, and type 2 diabetes, this episode sheds light on the unintended consequences of interrupting the body's natural processes.
But this isn’t just about debunking myths—it’s about empowering you. Learn how simple lifestyle changes—like improving your diet, increasing movement, staying hydrated, and taking quality supplements—can reduce inflammation and dramatically lower your risk for heart disease. You'll also hear about the key inflammatory markers that truly matter when assessing heart health and why focusing on these is far more effective than fixating on LDL alone. Whether you’re questioning your own cholesterol levels, considering statins, or just looking to make healthier choices, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you take charge of your cardiovascular health. Tune in for science-backed truths, practical advice, and a dose of inspiration to make health your hobby!
Interested in seeing your cardiovascular inflammation levels? Check out this Cardiovascular Inflammation Test from Nutridyn and receive 15% off your purchase!
Understanding Cholesterol & Cardiovascular Health
Welcome to the Foundational Health Podcast with Dr. Kevin Schultz. Today’s focus is on cholesterol, a key factor in cardiovascular health and a topic of global concern. Why is cholesterol so important? Cardiovascular disease has consistently been the number one cause of death worldwide. Despite extensive efforts to educate and combat this issue, the problem continues to escalate each year.
To lay the groundwork for today’s discussion, let’s start with an overview of the American healthcare system and how it intersects with cholesterol and cardiovascular health.
A Bird’s Eye View of the U.S. Healthcare System
The U.S. healthcare system is frequently hailed as a global leader, excelling in five key categories:
Top-Ranked Physicians: Widely regarded as the best in the world.
Cutting-Edge Technology: The U.S. boasts the most advanced medical tools and innovations.
Unmatched Spending: Americans spend more on healthcare annually than any other nation.
High Surgery Rates: The U.S. performs the most surgeries worldwide.
Pharmaceutical Dominance: Americans both produce and consume the majority of the world’s pharmaceutical drugs, despite comprising only 4% of the global population.
Yet, these accolades come with an alarming paradox. While the U.S. excels in these areas, it ranks 69th in overall health and 48th in longevity on global scales. These stark contrasts raise significant questions about the effectiveness of our system.
The Statin Drug Industry: A Trillion-Dollar Behemoth
Statin drugs, such as Lipitor, are a cornerstone of cardiovascular treatment and represent the most lucrative drug class in history.
Lipitor alone has generated $130 billion in sales.
The global statin market exceeds $1 trillion.
Approximately 1 in 8 people worldwide—around 1 billion individuals—are on a statin.
The widespread use of statins stems from the standard of care for cardiovascular disease, which is built on the cholesterol hypothesis.
The Cholesterol Hypothesis and Standard of Care
The cholesterol hypothesis asserts that higher levels of cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL), are directly linked to increased rates of heart disease and cardiovascular death. Consequently, medical guidelines prioritize lowering LDL levels as a primary treatment goal, and statin drugs are prescribed to do just that.
The Origin of the Hypothesis
The cholesterol hypothesis traces its roots back to the 1970s. Researchers examined individuals with cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes, discovering that their clogged arteries were lined with LDL cholesterol. From this observation, the hypothesis was born: LDL cholesterol must be a driving factor in heart disease.
This idea laid the groundwork for the current standard of care, where lowering LDL levels is a primary goal, often through the use of statin drugs. However, a critical question remains:
If this hypothesis were accurate—and statins effectively reduce LDL levels—why does cardiovascular disease remain the leading global cause of death, worsening each year?
Are Statin Drugs Effective?
It is proven that statin drugs are effective at lowering LDL levels, However, decades of research on statins, published in some of the most respected medical journals (e.g., British Medical Journal, Journal of the American Medical Association), shed light on the effectiveness of these drugs at actually lowering the risk of death from heart disease:
For Patients with Heart Disease:
Statins provide an average life expectancy increase of just 4.2 days for individuals who have already experienced a heart attack and are placed on statins.
For Patients Without Diagnosed Heart Disease:
The majority of statin users fall into this category—they are prescribed statins solely due to elevated LDL levels, despite no history of heart disease or severe arterial blockages.
Research shows no increase in life expectancy for these individuals—not even a single day.
Challenging the Cholesterol Hypothesis
The cholesterol hypothesis, while widely accepted in mainstream medicine, is facing increasing scrutiny from researchers, healthcare professionals, and organizations worldwide. Emerging studies suggest that LDL cholesterol may not be the villain it’s made out to be.
A Groundbreaking Study on Cholesterol Levels
One of the largest studies ever conducted, involving 12.8 million adults, provides surprising insights:
Individuals with total cholesterol levels between 200 and 240 had the lowest risk of heart disease and the highest likelihood of survival.
These findings directly contradict the prevailing medical guidelines, which recommend keeping total cholesterol below 200 and LDL levels under 100—or even lower for individuals with a history of cardiovascular events.
The Surprising Trend in Mortality
When cholesterol levels fall within the "recommended" range—below 200 for total cholesterol and under 100 for LDL—all-cause mortality (death from any cause) actually increases. This means that lower cholesterol levels, as prescribed by current guidelines, correlate with higher death rates from all causes, a contradiction to what the cholesterol hypothesis predicts.
A Flawed Hypothesis?
The cholesterol hypothesis is just that—a hypothesis. Observing LDL at the site of arterial blockages doesn’t necessarily mean LDL causes cardiovascular disease. To illustrate:
LDL as the Scapegoat: Assuming LDL causes heart disease is like blaming firemen for house fires simply because they’re always present at the scene.
The True Role of LDL: Research indicates that LDL behaves like the body’s “firefighter.” It is produced by the liver in times of need and travels to damaged areas, such as inflamed arteries, to help heal and protect them.
The Science Behind LDL’s Role in Health
Emerging evidence reveals that LDL cholesterol plays a critical role in maintaining overall health, particularly as we age:
Longevity in Older Adults: Studies show that higher LDL levels in individuals over 60 are associated with longer life expectancy.
Immune System Support: LDL is crucial for a healthy immune response, offering protection against infections and even cancer.
Brain and Artery Health: LDL supports brain function and protects the lining of arteries, countering the narrative that it solely contributes to cardiovascular harm.
These findings stand in stark contrast to conventional wisdom, which prioritizes lower LDL levels as a marker of health.
Why Hasn’t the Cholesterol Hypothesis Been Rejected?
Despite mounting evidence against the cholesterol hypothesis, it remains the foundation of modern cardiovascular care. The reason lies in a simple but profound truth:
“Just because something makes sense doesn’t mean it makes dollars.”
The trillion-dollar statin industry is built entirely on the cholesterol hypothesis. As a result, challenging this narrative threatens an enormous economic structure. This financial reality ensures the cholesterol hypothesis—and the corresponding standard of care—will persist for the foreseeable future.
Rethinking Cholesterol’s Role in the Body
Cholesterol is a fat-like, waxy substance produced primarily in the liver, although small amounts come from the diet. While it is measured in the blood, cholesterol is present in every single cell of the body—a testament to its essential role in human health.
The Vital Roles of Cholesterol
Cholesterol is far from being the villain it’s often portrayed as. Instead, it plays crucial roles in numerous biological processes:
Cell Membrane Formation: Cholesterol is a key structural component of cell membranes, helping to maintain their integrity and function.
Hormone Production: It is essential for synthesizing hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, which regulate critical body processes.
Bile Acid Production: Cholesterol is used to produce bile acids, stored in the gallbladder and vital for digesting and absorbing fats, as discussed in the gut health episode of the Foundational Health podcast.
Vitamin D3 Synthesis: Cholesterol contributes to the production of vitamin D3, a nutrient critical for immune system health.
Immune and Anti-inflammatory Functions: It plays a role in reducing inflammation and supporting immune responses when needed.
What Actually Causes Heart Disease?
If LDL cholesterol isn’t the culprit behind heart disease, then what is? The answer lies in the concept of chronic inflammation. Inflammation is at the root of arterial damage, and understanding its triggers is key to addressing cardiovascular disease.
The Role of Chronic Inflammation in Heart Disease
Chronic inflammation damages the arteries, creating a need for repair. This is where LDL cholesterol comes into play—not as the cause of the problem, but as a protective response.
The Mechanism of Damage: Chronic inflammation leads to scarring within the arteries, which triggers clotting factors. LDL is sent to these damaged areas to help heal and protect the arterial lining.
The Real Cause: LDL isn’t the arsonist; it’s the fireman responding to the damage caused by chronic inflammation.
What Triggers Chronic Inflammation?
A significant contributor to chronic inflammation is ultra-processed food—a staple of the modern diet:
Processed Sugars and Grains
Bad Dairy Products
Artificial Food Dyes
Other Toxins commonly found in processed foods
The statistics are staggering:
70% of children’s daily calories in America come from ultra-processed foods.
60% of adult calories are similarly derived.
These inflammatory foods and other toxins contribute to widespread damage in the body, particularly in the arteries. The inflammation caused by these substances leads to scarring, setting the stage for clotting and other complications. LDL steps in to mitigate this damage, highlighting its role as a protector, not a perpetrator.
Rethinking LDL’s Role in Heart Disease
The idea that LDL causes heart disease is as flawed as blaming firemen for house fires simply because they’re always present. LDL is the body’s natural response to inflammation and arterial damage, working to repair and protect—not to harm.
How to Lower Heart Disease Risk by Reducing Inflammation
Heart disease is not an inevitable outcome. Since cardiovascular disease stems from chronic inflammation, the good news is that lifestyle changes can reduce inflammation and lower your risk. Unlike artificially lowering LDL cholesterol, targeting the root cause—chronic inflammation—is both effective and science-backed.
Simple Steps to Reduce Inflammation
Improving lifestyle habits can have a profound effect on reducing inflammation and, in turn, decreasing heart disease risk:
1. Exercise and Movement
Regular physical activity gets the blood flowing and reduces inflammation markers in the body.
Even small increases in daily movement—like walking or stretching—can contribute to long-term benefits.
2. Hydration with Clean Water
Water Quality Matters: Filtered water helps remove toxins that could contribute to inflammation.
Stay Hydrated: Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water daily to flush out toxins and inflammation.
3. A Whole-Food, Balanced Diet
Focus on whole foods: Fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Minimize or eliminate ultra-processed foods, as these are major contributors to inflammation.
4. Key Supplements
The right supplements can support the body in its fight against inflammation:
Multivitamin: Provides essential nutrients that may be missing from your diet.
Probiotics: Support gut health, which plays a role in reducing systemic inflammation.
Vitamin D3: Critical for immune function and reducing inflammation.
Omega-3 Fish Oil: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it’s a standout for cardiovascular health.
The Risks of Artificially Lowering LDL
While lowering LDL cholesterol has been the focus of heart disease prevention for decades, artificially reducing LDL levels—most commonly with statins—comes with a host of unintended consequences. The issue lies in how statins work: they block the liver's natural production of LDL, interfering with the critical roles LDL plays in the body.
The Consequences of Blocking LDL Production
When LDL production is suppressed, the body loses a key mechanism for healing, repairing, and protecting vital systems like the brain, arteries, and immune function. This interference leads to numerous side effects, both common and severe, because statins disrupt natural processes.
Common Side Effects of Statins
If you’ve ever listened to a pharmaceutical commercial, you’ve likely heard a long list of possible side effects—and statins are no exception. Among the most common side effects reported are:
Digestive Issues: Belching, gas, indigestion, nausea, stomach discomfort, constipation, and heartburn.
Muscle Problems: Muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness, often around the eyes and cheekbones.
Sleep Disruption: Trouble falling or staying asleep.
Other Symptoms: Headaches, stuffy or runny nose, excessive sweating, and pain in the lower back or sides.
Long-Term Concerns with Lowering LDL
Beyond these immediate side effects, research increasingly shows that artificially lowering LDL can lead to serious long-term health issues:
1. Cognitive Decline
Cholesterol, particularly LDL, is vital for protecting the brain as we age. Studies now link low LDL levels to a higher risk of conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. These findings make sense—if LDL helps maintain and repair brain function, reducing it can leave the brain vulnerable to neurodegenerative diseases.
2. Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Statins are known to increase insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance doesn’t just raise diabetes risk—it also contributes to heart disease and even cancer. Alarmingly, Alzheimer’s disease is sometimes referred to as “type 3 diabetes” due to the role insulin resistance plays in its development.
3. Reduced Natural Aging Defenses
As we age, cholesterol levels naturally increase—this is the body’s way of providing additional protection to the brain, arteries, and other systems. Suppressing LDL production with statins disrupts this natural balance, potentially making the body more susceptible to chronic illnesses.
Empowering You to Make Informed Choices About Cardiovascular Health
That was a lot to unpack, wasn’t it? And it might sound overwhelming or even scary, but that’s not my goal. This isn’t about fear—it’s about hope. My aim with this podcast, and this topic in particular, is to give you the tools to better understand your health and make confident, informed decisions.
Rethinking Cholesterol and Heart Disease
For decades, we’ve been conditioned to believe that our bodies aren’t capable of self-healing and that medications are essential for staying healthy. But this narrative is incomplete. Every day, I talk to individuals who’ve worked hard to maintain a healthy lifestyle—exercising regularly and eating whole, unprocessed foods—only to be told by their doctor that their LDL cholesterol is “too high” and that they need to start taking a statin.
Here’s the thing: cholesterol levels naturally rise as we age because our bodies need more cholesterol for protection and repair. Elevated LDL levels alone, without any other markers of inflammation, are not a standalone risk factor for heart disease or death.
What to Really Focus On
If your LDL levels are high, the next step should be looking at the bigger picture of your health, not just a single number. Here are the key markers to examine:
Triglycerides
High triglycerides are often a sign of excess sugar and processed food consumption. Cutting down on sugars can significantly lower these levels.Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
ApoB indicates inflammatory disease in the body and is a critical marker to monitor.C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
This well-known inflammatory marker can signal underlying inflammation that needs attention.
If LDL and total cholesterol levels are high but these three markers are normal, there’s no substantial evidence to suggest you’re at risk of cardiovascular disease. However, if these inflammatory markers are elevated alongside high LDL, then it’s time to take action.
The Right Approach to Heart Health
Faced with high cholesterol, you have two options:
Artificially lower LDL levels with drugs like statins or supplements that shut down its production.
Address the root cause by adopting lifestyle changes that allow your body to heal naturally.
Statins reduce cholesterol artificially, but this approach comes with side effects and ignores the root cause: chronic inflammation. A better strategy is to reduce inflammation through lifestyle changes, like improving diet, increasing exercise, and managing stress.
The Outdated Cholesterol Hypothesis
The cholesterol hypothesis—that high LDL is the primary cause of heart disease—has persisted for 50 years, but it lacks substantial evidence. It’s a hypothesis, not definitive science, and it’s increasingly being challenged by doctors and researchers who prioritize real data.
For example, studies involving millions of participants show that:
Healthy total cholesterol levels are between 220–240 mg/dL.
Optimal LDL levels are above 120 mg/dL, contrary to conventional medical advice.
These cholesterol ranges must also correlate with normal inflammatory markers for optimal health.
Taking Control of Your Health
This isn’t about ignoring your doctor’s advice. Instead, it’s about being informed and asking the right questions. For example, if your doctor recommends a statin, ask to discuss your inflammatory markers, side effects, and non-pharmaceutical options.
If doctors presented the full picture—complete with facts about inflammatory markers, side effects, and alternative approaches—would as many people rush to take statins? Likely not. Instead, they might choose to embrace lifestyle changes that allow their bodies to heal and function as designed.
Trusted Experts to Follow
If you want to dive deeper into this topic, I highly recommend following these cardiologists who challenge the status quo:
Dr. Jack Wolfson (known as “The Natural Health Doctor”)
These experts left mainstream medicine to educate the public about heart health from a more holistic perspective.
Educational and Inspirational Takeaways
Success = Simple Habits Performed Daily Over Time
It’s easy to feel like you need to make drastic changes, but success comes from small, consistent habits over time. Focus on what your health will look like in 5–10 years, not the next six months. Start slow, incorporate one simple change at a time, and let it become part of your daily routine.Lowering LDL Does Not Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
The literature shows there’s no clinical evidence that lowering LDL—whether through medication or natural methods—reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes, or death. This isn’t just an opinion; it’s based on research.Optimal Cholesterol and LDL Levels
Cholesterol: between 220–240 mg/dL.
LDL: above 120 mg/dL
These cholesterol ranges must also correlate with normal inflammatory markers for optimal health.
If you want to check your cardiovascular inflammation, check out this Cardiovascular Inflammation Test from Nutridyn (And receive 15% off your purchase!)
Revisit the Information
If you’re starting to grasp some of this but still have questions, listen to this podcast a few more times. Sometimes it takes repetition to fully understand. It’s worth the time if it helps you take charge of your health.Be a Health Leader
Share this podcast with those around you. As a leader, it’s your responsibility to help others understand that our bodies are designed to heal. Empower them to make informed decisions about their health, too.