Low Cholesterol and Its Psychological Effects
Cholesterol is vitally important for our health. Cholesterol is critical for hormone production such as testosterone, progesterone, DHEA, cortisol and pregnenolone. Testosterone and progesterone deficiencies become problematic as we age leading to fatigue, loss of muscle strength, and poor vitality. DHEA, often considered to be an anti-aging hormone, is also necessary for healthy immune function and balance of estrogen in women. Cortisol and pregnenolone are necessary for adrenal health (which affects blood sugar balance and inflammation) and brain function, respectively. Low Cholesterol levels can create deficiencies in these overtime. For years I have looked at people’s cholesterol levels to make sure they were not too low as we have seen a correlation between low cholesterol and chronic health issues, including many mental health problems.
This article from John Greenblatt, M.D., a John Hopkins trained psychiatrist, highlights the importance of cholesterol assessment in mental health disorders, and the link between low cholesterol to depression, violent behavior and even suicide:
Mark, a 43 year-old executive, saw his doctor for his annual physical. Reviewing his laboratory tests, the doctor noted that Mark’s total cholesterol level was for the first time over 200mg/dL.
As a preventative measure the doctor prescribed a statin, a class of cholesterol-lowering drugs. His cholesterol levels declined, but so did his mood. Mark was now struggling with anxiety and depression.
Over the years I’ve seen many patients like Mark, being treated by physicians with the mantra of “the lower the better” when it comes to cholesterol levels(more)
Dr. Kurt Woeller is passionate about health. This includes physical, mental, and spiritual health, as well as financial well-being which makes all other three much easier to pursue. He is a physician dedicated to natural living and healing with an emphasis on fitness, nutrition and bringing more joy to yourself and others as the keystone to a Long Full Life. To learn more about Dr. Woeller visit www.Dr.Woeller.com.
