The Benefits of ...Cholesterol?

If you're one of the many who have been made to be concerned about your cholesterol and are thinking about removing bacon and eggs from the daily menu, you might want reconsider. A new study finds that these traditional breakfast foods may have benefits. Researchers at Texas A&M University found that low cholesterol intake can actually reduce muscle gain from exercise. The team studied 55 men and women, ages 60-69, who were healthy non-smokers and able to perform exercise testing and training. Three days a week for 12 weeks, participants performed several exercises, including stretching, stationary bike riding, and vigorous weight lifting. Additionally, all participants consumed similar meals.

The study found a significant association of dietary cholesterol intake and change in strength. Those with higher cholesterol intake also had the highest muscle strength gain. Researchers believe one explanation may lie in cholesterol's role in the inflammatory process.

After exercise, muscles become sore because the body is rebuilding strained muscle cells and increasing muscle mass. Cholesterol may help in the inflammatory response beneficial for building muscles. Researchers also report that subjects taking cholesterol lowering medication showed lower muscle mass totals than those who were not.

Lead researcher, Steven Riechman, was caught completely off guard by these findings. He states, "From here, we need to look at a number of questions, such as what exactly happens to cholesterol while you exercise? What role does protein play in all of this?"

It's important to note that cholesterol may be beneficial, but only for those who regularly participate in vigorous exercise. People living sedentary lifestyles should still be aware about the numerous risks that have been claimed to be associated with high cholesterol.