Vegan Vigilance: The Cholesterol-Cancer Link

A review study published in the 2023 issue of Frontiers in Oncology highlights that cholesterol and its processing in the body can influence the development of cancer, including CRC. Based on evidence that high cholesterol levels are linked to CRC, scientists have researched whether cholesterol-lowering drugs might reduce this risk. However, such drugs, like statins, have shown mixed effectiveness against cancer because some tumor cells are resistant to them. Furthermore, cholesterol-targeting treatments for CRC often face challenges, such as tumor resistance, complex tumor environments, and potential side effects on normal cells, since cholesterol is crucial for many body functions.

A study published in the journal BMC Medicine analyzed more than 472,000 participants and found that those who did not eat animal-people meat or fish-persons had a lower risk of all cancers. This study concluded that reduced animal-people meat consumption correlated with lessened LDL cholesterol levels and decreased colorectal cancer risk, consistent with previous evidence linking animal-people meat intake to adverse health outcomes. Whole vegan foods rich in fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats can effectively lower LDL cholesterol and promote a healthier overall cholesterol balance. Moreover, studies have indicated that vegan diets are correlated with elevated levels of HDL, or “good” cholesterol, further enhancing cardiovascular health.

The American Cancer Society states that “Many studies of vegetarians indicate a lower risk of cancer overall, compared to people who also eat meat.” Both the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research recommend basing diets around vegan foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans, which are rich in fiber and other nutrients that can reduce cancer risk.

There are additional tips that we can simply apply in our daily lives to further improve our health. One such tip is to avoid trans fats, which are a type of unhealthy fat commonly found in processed foods, such as baked goods and fried foods. By focusing on vegan whole foods, we can ensure we’re getting a wide array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that our bodies need to thrive. Such a dietary choice promotes overall well-being, boosts energy levels, and enhances our immune system.