107: Fats on the Move - The Science of Lipid Transport

Simple, Healthy Choices for Weight Loss

In this episode, Dr. Steve explores how the body transports fats and cholesterol through the bloodstream. He explains the roles of VLDL, chylomicrons, and HDL in moving lipids, and how these lipoproteins help regulate fat and cholesterol levels. He also highlights the impact of diet and insulin on lipid transport and overall health.

[00:01 - 07:27] Understanding Cholesterol Panels

VLDL, IDL, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides are key components of cholesterol tests.

Lipoproteins transport fats like cholesterol and triglycerides through the bloodstream.

Cholesterol and triglycerides are essential for survival, despite the push to lower cholesterol.

VLDL, IDL, and LDL shrink as they release fat; HDL has different protein markers (ApoA).

[07:28 - 14:12] The Role of VLDL, IDL, and LDL in Fat Transport

VLDLs, IDLs, and LDLs move fats (cholesterol & triglycerides) throughout the body.

The liver produces 20% of the body’s cholesterol, and carbs convert to triglycerides.

VLDLs shrink into IDLs and then LDLs as they release triglycerides.

ApoB, C2, and E proteins help transport fats to muscles and fat cells.

[14:13 - 20:22] Healthy vs. Harmful LDLs

Large LDLs are essential, but small dense LDLs can damage blood vessels and cause heart disease.

LDLs are 75% cholesterol and help deliver cholesterol to cells for cellular health.

Higher LDL levels are linked to longevity and offer antioxidant benefits.

Statins can interfere with LDL's cellular benefits, harming cells.

[20:21 - 25:08] Chylomicrons vs. VLDLs: Fat Transport

Chylomicrons transport dietary fats from the intestines to the bloodstream.

Both chylomicrons and VLDLs carry essential proteins (ApoB48, C2, E) for fat transport.

After releasing triglycerides, chylomicrons shrink and become remnants sent to the liver.

High insulin disrupts fat transport; low insulin is crucial for healthy fat metabolism.

[25:09 - 39:33] The Importance of HDL: The "Good" Cholesterol

HDLs carry excess cholesterol from blood vessels to organs for proper function.

HDLs support hormone production by delivering cholesterol to the adrenal glands and gonads.

High-carb diets lower HDL, while high-fat, low-carb diets boost HDL levels.

HDLs help remove cholesterol from damaged arteries, supporting heart health.

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Tweetable Quotes:

“Good fat, good cholesterol, good protein. That's the things you need for proper nutrition. You do not need carbohydrates at all. Carbohydrates are killing us.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“Low carb, high-fat diet raises HDLs. High carb, low fat lowers HDLs.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“The way you increase your HDLs is by eating fat and cholesterol.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett