The Body of Evidence 140 – Cholesterol denialism with Unbiased Science
May 28, 2025
Sarah Scheinman, host of the Unbiased Science podcast, brings a keen scientific perspective to the debate around cholesterol denialism. The conversation explores the puzzling evolution of skepticism towards cholesterol science, including a look at infamous skeptics and their influence. They humorously critique classic literature while discussing the complexities of cholesterol, statin effectiveness, and the historical context of cholesterol research. The episode highlights the challenges of changing entrenched beliefs in health and science today.
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Cholesterol Denialism Defined
- Cholesterol denialism denies cholesterol's role in heart disease and rejects statin benefits.
- This skepticism often glorifies high-fat diets and misattributes heart disease causes.
Historical Context of Cholesterol Skepticism
- Cholesterol skepticism was reasonable before statins due to ineffective treatments.
- The 1989 view that cholesterol lowering was difficult and dangerous reflects this earlier evidence.
Early Cholesterol Research and Skepticism
- Anichkov's 1913 rabbit study linked cholesterol to atherosclerosis but was dismissed due to replication issues.
- Skepticism about animal models delayed progress for decades despite early proof cholesterol's role.
