High Performance Health

Bitesize: Menopause and High Cholesterol: When “Normal” Numbers Suddenly Aren’t | Dr William Li

Jan 16, 2026
Dr. William Li, a medical doctor and researcher specializing in integrative and preventive medicine, guides listeners through the intricate relationship between menopause and cholesterol. He explains how rising LDL levels correlate with increased cardiovascular risk, likening LDL to 'Velcro' that can cause plaque buildup. The discussion reveals the shift in focus from total cholesterol to important HDL/LDL ratios and debunks myths perpetuated by health influencers regarding blood sugar spikes. Dr. Li emphasizes a balanced, holistic approach to heart health.
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INSIGHT

LDL Raises Cardiovascular Risk

  • High LDL cholesterol is correlated with increased cardiovascular disease risk because it sticks to artery walls and forms plaque.
  • You need some LDL, but large amounts raise risk across organs including heart, brain, and muscles.
INSIGHT

Ratio Over Total Cholesterol

  • Total cholesterol is an outdated single metric; the LDL/HDL ratio gives clearer risk information.
  • Newer measures (oxidized LDL, ApoE) add nuance but the ratio remains central.
ANECDOTE

Milky Blood From Genetic Cholesterol

  • William Li recalls a college classmate with extremely high genetic cholesterol and milky blood.
  • That case illustrated familial hypercholesterolemia and early heart death in relatives.
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