‘Good’ cholesterol warning as scientists link it to major health condition

Scientists are sounding the alarm over the so-called ‘good cholesterol’, after findings suggest that it may not be entirely beneficial. Despite a positive reputation, recent research has unveiled a possible connection between ‘good cholesterol’ consumption and an increased risk of glaucoma — a serious eye condition which can cause blindness.

Although more research is necessary, these discoveries have thrown doubt on to what was long believed to be a healthy part of our diets. “These findings challenge existing paradigms about ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol in relation to eye health,” the experts behind the British Journal of Ophthalmology study said.

“HDL cholesterol has been regarded as the ‘good cholesterol’ for seven decades. However, this study demonstrates that high levels of [it] are not consistently associated with a favourable prognostic outcome.”

It’s essential to note that cholesterol comes in two main varieties: high-density lipoproteins (HDL), dubbed the ‘good cholesterol’, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL), otherwise known as ‘bad cholesterol’. The latter, often attributed to poor lifestyle choices, is linked to the development of lethal conditions such as heart attacks and strokes when levels escalate.

In contrast, HDL cholesterol is celebrated for its role in diminishing the risk of such cardiovascular issues and is present in various well-liked foods like salmon, nuts, avocados, and legumes.

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Within the new study, researchers delved into data from 400,229 individuals aged between 40 and 69, all part of the UK Biobank Study. Participants were subjected to detailed questionnaires, interviews, and blood tests, with their health outcomes tracked over an impressive average span of 14 years.

Shockingly, within this timeframe, 6,868 cases of glaucoma emerged. A closer look at the blood test results revealed that those with higher levels of HDL cholesterol were at a 10% increased risk of developing glaucoma compared to those with the lowest levels.

Conversely, participants with the highest amounts of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides had a reduced likelihood of glaucoma by 8% and 14%, respectively. However, these correlations were only significant in those aged over 55, with no notable link found in the 40-55 age group.

The scientists acknowledged several limitations in their study, cautioning against jumping to conclusions regarding the observations. “Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms behind these associations,” they concluded.