Cholesterol is one of the most misunderstood aspects of health and nutrition. The confusion surrounding cholesterol has led to many myths that cause unnecessary fear and poor dietary choices. It’s time to set the record straight and debunk certain myths around cholesterol so that it is understood properly and timely medical help is taken to make sure it doesn’t lead to complications. One of the biggest misconceptions is that cholesterol is harmful. In reality, cholesterol is essential for our body. Our liver produces cholesterol because our body needs it for hormone production, vitamin D synthesis, and brain function. Many people avoid eggs, dairy, and healthy fats due to misconceptions, while blindly following low-fat diets that may do more harm than good. The real culprits for high cholesterol are processed foods, trans fats, and excessive sugar consumption—not eggs. Lifestyle changes such as eating fiber-rich foods, exercising regularly, reducing processed sugar intake, and managing stress can significantly improve cholesterol levels. Instead of obsessing over cholesterol numbers alone, pay attention to markers like blood pressure, triglycerides, and insulin resistance. A well-planned plant-based diet can be beneficial for heart health, but it’s still important to get enough healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients to support overall cholesterol balance.
