The Great Cholesterol Myth

“The Great Cholesterol Myth” presents a groundbreaking perspective on heart disease, challenging conventional wisdom surrounding cholesterol and its role as the primary indicator of cardiovascular health. Authored by best-selling health experts Jonny Bowden, PhD, and Stephen Sinatra, MD, this updated edition incorporates the latest research and clinical findings on high-fat/ketogenic diets, sugar, genetics, and other factors influencing heart disease.

Traditionally, heart disease protocols have focused on lowering cholesterol levels, often through ineffective low-fat/high-carb diets and statin drugs. However, the authors argue that cholesterol levels are a poor predictor of heart disease and that these standard prescriptions may obscure the true causes of cardiovascular issues. They highlight inflammation, fibrinogen, triglycerides, homocysteine, belly fat, triglyceride to HDL ratios, and high glycemic levels as the real culprits behind heart disease.

Dispelling common myths surrounding cholesterol and heart health, Bowden and Sinatra provide evidence-backed insights into the true risk factors for cardiovascular disease. They offer a comprehensive four-part strategy for preventing, managing, and even reversing heart disease, focusing on diet, exercise, supplements, and stress and anger management.

Key Myths vs. Facts addressed in the book include:

– Myth: High cholesterol is the cause of heart disease. Fact: Cholesterol is only a minor player in the cascade of inflammation.
– Myth: Saturated fat is dangerous. Fact: Saturated fats are not dangerous; transfats from partially hydrogenated oils are the real concern.
– Myth: Lowering cholesterol with statin drugs will prolong your life. Fact: There is no significant data to support this claim.
– Myth: Statin drugs are safe. Fact: Statin drugs can have serious side effects, including death.

By challenging these misconceptions and providing evidence-based recommendations, “The Great Cholesterol Myth” offers readers a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing heart disease effectively.