Key points from article :
Dr. Michael Greger, in his book "How Not to Age," challenges the notion of normal cholesterol levels, arguing that what is considered normal today is based on a society with a high risk of heart disease.
Scientific consensus supports the idea that lowering LDL cholesterol reduces the risk of heart attacks, with elevated cholesterol identified as a primary cause of heart disease.
Merely having "normal" cholesterol levels, as defined by current standards, may not be optimal for health.
Even those with so-called optimal risk factors can have atherosclerotic plaques in their arteries.
Studies reveal that overt atherosclerotic plaques were detected in 38% of individuals with normal LDL levels under 130.
While medication like statins can lower cholesterol, the article emphasizes the importance of balancing the benefits with potential risks, such as muscle damage and increased diabetes risk.
