Ugly Cholesterol – Yet Another Cholesterol Type Linked to Heart Disease

In a novel research study, a Danish group has found that LDL, the Low Density Lipoprotein cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol that we usually associate with heart disease may not be as bad as thought. Instead, a new culprit, called “Ugly” Cholesterol, appears to be tied to the level of triglycerides and the incidence of ischemic stroke. Ischemic stroke occurs when there is insufficient oxygen to the heart muscle caused by narrowing of the coronary arteries.

In a large-scale study of over 70,000 individuals, the Danish group found that when the level of Ugly cholesterol (yes, that’s what they call it) is high, the level of triglycerides was high. So instead of focusing on the LDL, perhaps we need to keep an eye on our triglycerides.

Diets that are high in saturated fats like fish oils, nuts and seeds all support the reduction of triglycerides along with a proper intake of protein and carbohydrates.

Julia Child may have had it right all along when she said ... “Enjoy eating saturated fats, they’re good for you!”

Reference.

Anette Varbo, Marianne Benn, Anne Tybjærg-Hansen, Anders B. Jørgensen, Ruth Frikke-Schmidt, Børge G. Nordestgaard. Remnant Cholesterol as a Causal Risk Factor for Ischemic Heart Disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 2012; DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2012.08.1026