Recent research shows that cholesterol acts as an antioxidant.60 This
is the likely explanation for the fact that cholesterol levels go up
with age. As an antioxidant, cholesterol protects us against free
radical damage that leads to heart disease and cancer. Cholesterol is
the body's repair substance, manufactured in large amounts when the
arteries are irritated or weak.

Blaming heart disease on high serum cholesterol levels is like blaming
firemen who have come to put out a fire for starting the blaze.
Cholesterol is needed for proper function of serotonin receptors in
the brain.61 Serotonin is the body's natural "feel-good" chemical.
This explains why low cholesterol levels have been linked to
aggressive and violent behavior, depression and suicidal tendencies.

Mother's milk is especially rich in cholesterol and contains a special
enzyme that helps the baby utilize this nutrient. Babies and children
need cholesterol-rich foods throughout their growing years to ensure
proper development of the brain and nervous system.

Dietary cholesterol plays an important role in maintaining the health
of the intestinal wall,62 which is why low-cholesterol vegetarian
diets can lead to leaky gut syndrome and other intestinal disorders.
Animal foods containing saturated fat and cholesterol provide vital
nutrients necessary for growth, energy and protection from
degenerative disease.