482: Overcome Your Fear Of Cholesterol with Dr. Cate Shanahan
Jul 8, 2024
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Dr. Cate Shanahan challenges misconceptions about cholesterol, highlighting its importance in hormone regulation and reducing oxidative stress. She discusses the dark history behind the fear of cholesterol and advocates for celebrating high levels. The podcast explores the connection between seed oils and cholesterol fear, the role of oxidative stress, and the vital importance of cholesterol in the body. Embracing healthy fats and avoiding vegetable oils are recommended for better health outcomes.
Cholesterol plays a vital role in hormone regulation and reducing oxidative stress.
Ansel Keys' biased views led to the demonization of cholesterol without substantial evidence.
Avoiding seed oils and prioritizing whole foods can enhance health by reducing oxidative stress.
Deep dives
The Misunderstanding of Cholesterol
Cholesterol is revealed to function as an antioxidant and a critical cell building block in our body, contrary to common fears around it. Dr. Kate Shanahan explains the historical misinterpretation of cholesterol as a contributing factor to heart attacks. She posits that cholesterol should be celebrated for its roles in the body and clarifies why rising cholesterol levels can be positive.
An Unveiling of Ansel Keys' Misleading Research
Dr. Kate Shanahan delves into Ansel Keys' role in perpetuating the misconception about cholesterol. His biased views on obesity and dietary fat led to the demonization of cholesterol without substantial evidence to support his claims. Keys' manipulation of data, such as fabricating heart disease cases, significantly influenced public perception and dietary guidelines.
Addressing the Impact of Seed Oils and Cholesterol Fear
Seed oils, falsely promoted as heart-healthy alternatives, contribute to health issues by increasing oxidative stress in the body. The fear-induced focus on lowering cholesterol has overshadowed the detrimental effects of seed oils on overall health. Kate elucidates how understanding the damaging effects of these oils is crucial for improving health outcomes.
Embracing Nutrient-Rich Foods and Cholesterol Increase
By prioritizing nutrient-dense whole foods and avoiding toxic seed oils, individuals can enhance their health and well-being. Dr. Kate Shanahan advocates for embracing cholesterol increase as a positive sign of reduced oxidative stress. Encouraging a shift towards healthier dietary choices can lead to better energy levels and improved community wellness.
Featured Sponsor and Conclusion
The episode features sponsors promoting grass-fed organ meats and venison for a nutritious diet. The discussion with Dr. Kate Shanahan emphasizes the importance of reevaluating dietary beliefs and focusing on nutrient-rich foods to combat health issues. Listeners are encouraged to take informed steps towards a brighter future by understanding the true impact of dietary choices.
When was cholesterol chosen to be the villain of good health? What is the history behind the campaign against cholesterol? Dr. Cate Shanahan, the author of "Deep Nutrition" and "Dark Calories", reviews the dark history of the misunderstanding related to this important nutrient. She discusses cholesterol's true (and important) role in hormone regulation and reducing oxidative stress.
Cholesterol is so important, actually, that Cate suggests that we should celebrate when our cholesterol levels are high!
Cate also answers the question: If cholesterol doesn't cause heart attacks, what does?