Sugar is the Culprit, Not Cholesterol: Rethinking Heart Health and Diet

For decades, cholesterol has been blamed as the main cause of heart disease, leading to low-fat diets and cholesterol-lowering medications. But recent research suggests we may have overlooked an even greater culprit in the fight against cardiovascular disease: sugar. Despite cholesterol’s controversial reputation, mounting evidence reveals that added sugars and refined carbohydrates are far more damaging to our health, fueling inflammation, obesity, and ultimately, heart disease. Here’s why sugar—not cholesterol—is the real enemy of heart health, and how making dietary changes can have a positive impact. Photo by Suzy Hazelwood: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photo-of-sugar-cubes-in-glass-jar-2523659/ The Cholesterol Myth Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods. For years, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, was believed to clog arteries and lead to heart disease. However, more recent studies suggest that cholesterol alone isn’t responsible for heart disease. Inflammation, high blood sugar, and metabolic dysfunction—often caused by high-sugar diets—play a much larger role in causing arterial damage and heart problems. In fact, cholesterol is essential for our bodies. It helps build cell membranes, produces hormones, and supports brain health. High LDL levels may indicate inflammation or other underlying issues rather than being the direct [...]