Cholesterol Myths That Are Keeping Black People Sick

Managing cholesterol is essential for heart health, especially for Black individuals who face higher rates of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. However, misconceptions about cholesterol—how it works and how to control it—are contributing to poor health outcomes in Black communities.

From demonizing eggs and butter to pushing harmful low-fat diets, many of these myths have led to unnecessary dietary restrictions, overprescription of medications, and increased health risks. Additionally, racism in healthcare, stress, and systemic barriers further complicate cholesterol management for Black patients.

Understanding the truth about cholesterol is the first step toward better heart health.

The Truth About Eggs, Butter, and Red Meat

One of the biggest cholesterol myths is that eating foods high in dietary cholesterol—such as eggs, butter, and red meat—directly increases blood cholesterol levels. However, modern research has debunked this belief. The body regulates its own cholesterol production, and for most people, dietary cholesterol has minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels.

Eggs: Nutrient-Dense, Not Dangerous

Myth: Eating eggs raises cholesterol and increases heart disease risk.
Truth: Eggs are highly nutritious and do not significantly raise bad cholesterol (LDL) in most people.

Eggs are an excellent source of protein, vitamin B12, and choline, which support brain and heart health. Studies show that moderate egg consumption can increase good cholesterol (HDL), which protects the heart.

A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating up to one egg per day does not increase heart disease risk in healthy individuals.

Butter: The Quality Matters

Myth: Butter is bad for cholesterol and should be completely avoided.
Truth: Moderate butter consumption is not linked to heart disease, especially when high-quality butter is chosen.

While butter contains saturated fats, recent research suggests that not all saturated fats are harmful. Butter from grass-fed cows is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin K2, both of which support heart health.

A study in the PLOS ONE journal found no significant link between moderate butter consumption and heart disease risk.

Red Meat: Not All Meat Is Equal

Myth: All red meat causes high cholesterol and heart disease.
Truth: The type and quality of red meat matter.

Lean cuts of grass-fed beef, bison, and lamb can provide essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins without negatively impacting cholesterol levels. However, processed meats like bacon, sausages, and hot dogs contain harmful additives that increase heart disease risk.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that unprocessed red meat has no significant impact on cholesterol levels, while processed meats increase the risk of heart disease.

The real problem isn’t cholesterol in food—it’s the overconsumption of processed, high-sodium, and trans-fat-heavy foods.

Why Cutting All Fats Isn’t the Solution

For years, low-fat diets were promoted as the key to heart health. However, eliminating fats entirely can be harmful, leading to nutrient deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and increased cravings for processed foods. The body needs healthy fats to function properly, and the right types of fats can actually help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) while boosting good cholesterol (HDL).

Healthy Fats That Support Heart Health

Avocados – Rich in monounsaturated fats that help lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol.
Olive Oil – Contains antioxidants that protect the heart and reduce inflammation.
Fatty Fish – Salmon, mackerel, and sardines provide omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular health.
Nuts and Seeds – Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds offer healthy fats and fiber that promote balanced cholesterol levels.

Instead of avoiding fats altogether, focus on incorporating heart-healthy fats while cutting out trans fats and highly processed oils found in fast food and packaged snacks.

A study in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that replacing trans fats with healthy unsaturated fats significantly reduces heart disease risk.

What Most Doctors Get Wrong About Cholesterol in Black Patients

Black individuals are disproportionately affected by high cholesterol and heart disease, yet many healthcare providers fail to address these concerns adequately. This is due to systemic racism in healthcare, outdated medical guidelines, and a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment.

1. Underestimation of Risk

Black patients with high cholesterol are often under-treated or dismissed. Studies show that Black individuals are less likely to be prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications like statins, even when their risk factors are the same as those of white patients.

A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that Black patients were significantly less likely to receive statin therapy despite meeting the criteria.

2. Reliance on Outdated Guidelines

Many doctors still use cholesterol guidelines based on studies that primarily included white participants.
Genetic differences in cholesterol metabolism mean that Black individuals may require different treatment approaches.

3. Cultural Insensitivity in Dietary Advice

Many doctors fail to provide dietary advice that aligns with Black food traditions, making it harder to follow recommended diets. Instead of suggesting culturally appropriate adjustments to soul food, they simply tell patients to eliminate it altogether, which is unsustainable and unrealistic.

4. The Role of Stress and Inflammation

Chronic stress from racism, discrimination, and socioeconomic barriers leads to increased inflammation, which worsens heart disease risk.
Doctors often overlook stress as a key factor in cholesterol levels and fail to address mental health as part of heart disease prevention.

The Path to Better Cholesterol Management

1. Prioritizing Whole Foods Over Processed Foods

Swap refined grains for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat.
Choose fresh fruits and vegetables instead of canned or packaged versions with added sugars and sodium.

2. Incorporating Regular Exercise

Engage in at least 30 minutes of movement daily—walking, dancing, strength training, or group fitness classes.

3. Seeking Culturally Competent Healthcare

Find Black doctors and dietitians who understand the unique health concerns of Black individuals.
Advocate for comprehensive cholesterol screenings and personalized treatment plans.

4. Managing Stress for Heart Health

Practice mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to reduce stress.
Join community support groups or engage in spiritual practices that promote well-being.

Black individuals need a personalized and culturally relevant approach to cholesterol management—one that debunks harmful myths, promotes healthy fats, and addresses systemic healthcare issues. By: