Significance

• A low cholesterol level can help prevent the build up of fats and plaque in the arteries. A link has been established between high cholesterol levels and diabetes, stroke, heart disease and myriad health problems.
  
  

Considerations

• Cholesterol is needed in the body to metabolize fat and vitamins A, D, E and K. Cholesterol is required for cell function, in the manufacturing of bile (to aid the digestion of fats) and to convert sunshine into vitamin D.
  
  

Warning

• When cholesterol levels drop to notably low levels it may signal a serious health disorder, such as overactive thyroid, liver disease and malabsorption difficulties. A manganese deficiency may also cause abnormally low cholesterol levels.
  
  

Mood Disorders

• In 1999, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that extremely low cholesterol levels may also cause anxiety and depression. MSNBC reported that a South Korea study found that suicide was more likely in depressed patients with low cholesterol levels. Aggressive behavior was also cited.
  
  

Premature Births

• The National Human Genome Research Institute found pregnant women with very low cholesterol levels have an increased chance of delivering premature babies. Low birth weight is another concern in pregnant women with very low cholesterol levels.
  
  

Hemorrhage stroke

• Hemorrhage stroke was found to be more prevalent in men with cholesterol levels below 150 mg/DL. The risk of a cerebral stroke increased four-fold in men with levels below 190 mg/DL.