Has anybody raised low cholesterol?
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I am tired of being told to try eating more sugar to fix low cholesterol.
Has anybody effectively raised yours, and if so, how?
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I had the greatest success increasing my cholesterol by decreasing my fiber intake. My diet was already high in carbs and just by removing the fiber, my cholesterol went from 115 to 178.
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Egg yolks have cholesterol, so eat more egg yolks?
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@schemingfonzie said in Has anybody raised low cholesterol?:
Has anybody effectively raised yours, and if so, how?
Hi,
Could you give your blood labs and the range to make it easier.
Of course, no statin or liver overload (infection, heavy metal, diabetes).
If hypo, it could be one side of the problem.
Your mother or father doesn't suffer from genetic disorder: They can eat whatever they want, in any amount, without a fatty belly (BMI < 20). Supposition, here; of course.
No lack of ferritin too (anemia).
And yes, as Jennifer said, fiber from veggies or fruit (apple) can capture fat from the ingested food.
I won't eat eggs more than 3x/wk. (3x2). Need collagen or bone broth to balance leucine. Egg yolk alone should not be a problem (allergy). -
@Jennifer Interesting. How long did that take?
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@schemingfonzie, it was quite a while ago (2015) but if I’m not mistaken, I retested within a few months. Another thing to consider is thyroid health. Ray said that low cholesterol (in one interview he mentioned 145) pointed to adrenal failure. The thyroid and adrenals being the power sources of the body and the adrenals being the backup glands for the thyroid, having to compensate for it when it is underactive, I suspect my thyroid was involved, since I have diagnosed thyroid disease.
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@Jennifer it’s kind of a catch 22… I started taking thyroid and felt great until it used up the cholesterol and I failed to produce more. Since then my health has declined pretty hard. I know thyroid would help a lot of things, but I have to get cholesterol fixed first.
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I’m very sorry to hear that your health has declined, @schemingfonzie.
I understand. The same thing happened to me. Thankfully, Ray had warned me early on about the dangers of taking thyroid with such a low cholesterol level so I hadn’t been on it long—it was only about a week before the stress hormones kicked in. After that, I cut out all fiber and was basically on a diet of dairy, juice and lots of honey (sometimes a whole jar in one day), and then reintroduced thyroid when my cholesterol level was up to 178. I haven’t had an issue keeping my cholesterol up since, even when I was taking quite a bit of thyroid (3 grains), but I’ve kept my fiber intake to a minimum so that may be a factor. I hope you’re able to raise your cholesterol soon so you start feeling better. 
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@Jennifer thank you, your comments have been very helpful
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I've tried to cogitate
with help of google IA and Chat GPT. Sorry in advance since it's a bit long. Choose what you find interesting Supplementing T3 thyroid and lowered cholesterol
Supplementing with T3 thyroid hormone can potentially lower cholesterol levels, particularly in individuals with hypothyroidism. T3 helps regulate cholesterol metabolism by increasing the conversion of cholesterol to bile acids, which are then eliminated from the body. This process can lead to a reduction in both total and LDL cholesterol.
How T3 affects cholestérol:
• Increased cholesterol breakdown:
T3 enhances the breakdown of cholesterol into bile acids, which are then excreted from the body, thus lowering circulating cholesterol levels.
• Increased LDL receptor expression:
T3 can increase the expression of LDL receptors in the liver, which helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
• Regulation of cholestérol synthesis:
T3 can also influence cholesterol synthesis in the liver, further contributing to cholesterol balance.Does taking betaine HCl with lowered cholesterol (T3 supplementing) would help?
The impact of betaine HCl on cholesterol can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience a significant increase in cholesterol, while others may not.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Betaine HCl and Cholesterol:
Betaine HCl, when taken at higher doses (4-6 g/day), can increase both LDL (bad) and total cholesterol. This is a potential drawback, especially for individuals who are already managing cholesterol levels with medication or other interventions.
https://consensus.app/search/does-betaine-hydrochloride-increase-ldl-cholestero/wNtJGMvcTW2-4d6vjfhFXw (no effect under 4g/day)Question to Google IA:
Does improving bile secretion, in case of low cholesterol (T3 supplementing), would help?
Answer:
Yes, improving bile secretion, particularly in the context of lower cholesterol associated with T3 supplementation, can be beneficial. T3 (triiodothyronine) supplementation, used to treat hypothyroidism, can lead to lower cholesterol levels, and this effect is partially attributed to increased bile secretion.
NB: The extent to which T3 supplementation affects cholesterol levels can vary between individuals.
Here's why:
Cholesterol Excretion:
The liver uses cholesterol to produce bile acids, which are then secreted into the bile and excreted from the body.
T3 and Bile Secretion:
Thyroid hormone (T3) plays a role in regulating the expression of genes involved in bile acid synthesis and cholesterol transport, including those in the liver.What would help bile production in case of low cholesterol (T3 supplement)?
While a T3 supplement might indirectly affect bile production through its influence on cholesterol metabolism, it's not a direct or primary method to boost bile production. T3, a thyroid hormone, can impact cholesterol levels and potentially bile acid synthesis by affecting the enzyme CYP7A1, which is involved in bile acid production. However, excessive T3 can also suppress bile acid synthesis. A more direct approach to increase bile production involves substances like taurine, folic acid, and bile acid sequestrants, which directly stimulate bile flow or synthesis.
Here's a more detailed explanation: CYP7A1 Regulation:
T3 can affect the activity of CYP7A1, the rate-limiting enzyme in bile acid synthesis. However, the effect of T3 on CYP7A1 is complex and can be dose-dependent, meaning higher doses might actually suppress bile acid synthesis.
X
Question to ChatGPT
Background
A forum member (SF) has low LDL cholesterol and is taking a T3 supplement (hypothyroidism).
JF explains that she tried to improve her cholesterol levels before taking a thyroid extract supplement: Her diet included very little fiber, a high intake of honey, and a diet geared toward a fair amount of milk and fruit juice. Therefore, a fair amount of fructose and lactose.
Comment (LH) :
We know that a high intake of fructose will be converted into lipids by the liver. We know that the problem could be due to an inactive gene in the conversion of food (fat).Excess T3 also affects activity
Excess T3 can also inhibit bile acid synthesis. A more direct approach to increasing bile production involves substances such as taurine, folic acid, and bile acid sequestrants, which directly stimulate bile flow or synthesis.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Regulation of the Cyp450 Pathway: CYP7A1 Enzyme
T3 can affect the activity of CYP7A1, the rate-limiting enzyme in bile acid synthesis. However, the effect of T3 on CYP7A1 is complex and may be dose-dependent, meaning that higher doses of T3 could inhibit bile acid synthesis.
Interconnection: Thyroid T3 Supplementation and Cholesterol Reduction
T3 supplementation can potentially reduce cholesterol levels, particularly in people with hypothyroidism. T3 helps regulate cholesterol metabolism by increasing its conversion to bile acids, which are then eliminated from the body. This process can lead to a reduction in total and LDL cholesterol.
T3 and bile secretion:
Thyroid hormone (T3) plays a role in regulating the expression of genes involved in bile acid synthesis and cholesterol transport, particularly in the liver.Question to Google IA:
Does improving bile secretion, in case of low cholesterol (T3 supplementing), would help?
Answer:
Yes, improving bile secretion, particularly in the context of lower cholesterol associated with T3 supplementation, can be beneficial. T3 (triiodothyronine) supplementation, used to treat hypothyroidism, can lead to lower cholesterol levels, and this effect is partially attributed to increased bile secretion.
NB: The extent to which T3 supplementation affects cholesterol levels can vary between individuals.
Here's why:
Cholesterol Excretion:
The liver uses cholesterol to produce bile acids, which are then secreted into the bile and excreted from the body.
T3 and Bile Secretion:
Thyroid hormone (T3) plays a role in regulating the expression of genes involved in bile acid synthesis and cholesterol transport, including those in the liver.What would help bile production in case of low cholesterol (T3 supplement)?
While a T3 supplement might indirectly affect bile production through its influence on cholesterol metabolism, it's not a direct or primary method to boost bile production. T3, a thyroid hormone, can impact cholesterol levels and potentially bile acid synthesis by affecting the enzyme CYP7A1, which is involved in bile acid production. However, excessive T3 can also suppress bile acid synthesis. A more direct approach to increase bile production involves substances like taurine, folic acid, and bile acid sequestrants, which directly stimulate bile flow or synthesis.
Here's a more detailed explanation: CYP7A1 Regulation:
T3 can affect the activity of CYP7A1, the rate-limiting enzyme in bile acid synthesis. However, the effect of T3 on CYP7A1 is complex and can be dose-dependent, meaning higher doses might actually suppress bile acid synthesis.Question to ChatGPT:
Does changing the way of taking a T3 & T4 synthetic supplement could affect / improve the situation, under the control of a therapist?- First, trying to optimize déiodinase enzymes
https://www.restartmed.com/thyroid-deiodinase/?srsltid=AfmBOorGApZLEkTrZoUBZU6aU_ZL6PoL2pmQx2FyGIpqbXNmdkUmykSe
Excerpt:
Deiodinase enzymes are responsible for controlling the activity and metabolism of thyroid hormone systemically (for the whole body) and locally (in each cell). This is primarily done through the upregulation of deiodinase activity (especially D1 and D2) and the downregulation of D3 activity.
Note 1 (LucH): we are often deficient in selenium and iodine. Deiodinases are selenoproteins.
Note 2: Most of the “deiodination” occurs in the liver, kidney and thyroid gland. Stress and illness can impact the conversion. - Second, optimizing the level of T3 by lowering the amount, not to counteract bile secretion, or at least the lowest possible impact on the enzyme CYP7A1.
Help with food:
As it could be very heavy to attempt (side effects on energy levels), could we alternate the take of a thyroid supplement with a diet oriented high in fructose? (100 g, mainly from honey) (Mind: half fructose and half and glucose target).
2 egg yolks a day, 5d/wk. Not the whole egg (to limit the risk of allergy if the frequency is higher than 2x/wk.).
Third, optimizing bile secretion with supplements like taurine, folic acid, and bile acid sequestrants, which directly stimulate bile flow or synthesis.
Finally, main question: Could we imagine alternating 2 phases?
4 weeks with T3 & T4 supplement – pause 10 days with a cut in 50 % dose thyroid supplement – take of Betaine HCl 4-6 g with a protein (food). 3 g 2x/d. Betaine HCl in cure 10 days. Cut 50 % progressively the last 3 days.
Note that betaine hydrochloride might irritate stomach ulcers or keep them from healing when concerned. So be sure to have a normal state of mucin thickness in the stomach (500 mg taurine and 500 mg glutamine + 1 tsp collagen before sleep).
Answer in English please.
Answer from ChatGPT
Here’s a structured answer to your main question, based on your context, biochemical mechanisms, and practical considerations.- Could changing the way of taking synthetic T3/T4 improve the situation?
Yes, adjusting the dosage and timing of T3/T4 under medical supervision can significantly affect cholesterol and bile metabolism:
• Lowering T3 dose (while maintaining enough thyroid activity) may reduce its inhibitory effect on CYP7A1, thereby avoiding excessive suppression of bile acid synthesis.
• Supporting deiodinase activity (D1, D2) helps optimize the body’s conversion of T4 → T3, possibly reducing the need for high-dose direct T3 supplementation. This means less pharmacological “force” on liver metabolism.
Nutrient support for deiodinases:
• Selenium (100–200 mcg/day) – essential for D1/D2 activity.
• Iodine – but in controlled amounts, as both deficiency and excess can worsen thyroid dysfunction.
• Zinc and iron – also support thyroid hormone metabolism.
• Stress management (since cortisol excess impairs deiodinases).
- Diet approach and bile metabolism
You suggested alternating supplementation with a higher-fructose diet (honey, fruit, lactose from milk). Important points:
• Fructose metabolism: The liver preferentially uses fructose to form triglycerides and cholesterol. In theory, this could help restore cholesterol availability when T3 supplementation lowers it too much. But chronic high fructose (>50–60 g/d long term) may risk fatty liver in sensitive individuals.
• Egg yolks: Rich in cholesterol and phospholipids → supportive for bile production. Reasonable (2 yolks/day, 5 days/week) is safe for most people.
• Taurine: Essential for bile acid conjugation. 500–2000 mg/day can support bile flow and liver function.
• Folic acid: Involved in methylation pathways, indirectly helps with bile acid synthesis.
• Bile acid sequestrants (resins, or even soluble fibers in a milder way) can stimulate hepatic bile acid production, though they may also lower cholesterol further. Needs careful balance.
- Alternating two phases (your proposed protocol)
Phase 1 (4 weeks with T3/T4 supplement at normal dose):
• Monitor cholesterol, bile function (stool color/consistency can sometimes give indirect clues), energy, and liver enzymes.
Phase 2 (10 days with 50% thyroid dose + betaine HCl 4–6 g/d with protein):
• Goal: reduce the “push” from T3 on cholesterol conversion, while stimulating digestion and bile flow.
• Betaine HCl can improve stomach acidity, protein digestion, and indirectly bile release, but as you noted, contraindicated in ulcers or gastritis. Adding taurine + glutamine + collagen at night is a smart protective step for mucosa.
• Tapering thyroid dose the last 3 days avoids abrupt changes in metabolism.
This alternating approach could in theory allow:
• Periods of cholesterol “recovery” (more availability for bile production) during the reduced T3 phase.
• Protection of bile flow via supplements (taurine, folic acid, betaine HCl).
- Practical considerations and safety
• Lab monitoring is critical: thyroid panel (TSH, free T4, free T3), liver enzymes, cholesterol fractions, bile acids if possible.
• GI tolerance: watch for reflux, gastritis, or diarrhea with betaine HCl or bile acid–modulating supplements.
• Energy levels: cutting thyroid dose in half may cause fatigue, brain fog, or mood changes. Needs slow experimentation under medical guidance.
• Fructose use: better to use moderate amounts from whole fruit + honey rather than pushing 100 g daily long-term. Intermittent use might be safer.
Summary (direct answer):
Yes, modifying the way T3/T4 is taken could improve cholesterol/bile balance. Optimizing deiodinases (selenium, iodine, stress control), lowering T3 dose to the minimum effective level, and alternating supplementation phases may help reduce the suppression of bile acid synthesis. Supporting bile flow directly (taurine, folic acid, betaine HCl if tolerated) is more reliable than depending solely on thyroid modulation. The alternating 4-week/10-day cycle is a plausible experimental strategy, but must be supervised medically due to the risk of fatigue, GI irritation, and unpredictable cholesterol swings.
Would you like me to draft a practical phased protocol (with approximate nutrient/supplement doses, diet composition, and monitoring markers) that could be taken to a doctor for validation?
LucH anwers:
No thanks. Clear enough. Bye - First, trying to optimize déiodinase enzymes
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You’re welcome, @schemingfonzie. I’m glad to know my comments have been helpful.
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daily egg yolk plus lots of sugar, and if consuming starch, mixing more fat with it than you think is enough...
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granted, my cholesterol is around 200 and was never "low." but, I did see an uptick to 220 after a year. in that time I was doing more Peaty stuff like shrimp, beef, eggs, milk, butter. probably a lot of saturated fat in general. shrimp and egg yolks have a lot of cholesterol.
but is simply eating high-cholesterol food enough for the body to retain it?
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I have not raised low cholesterol. This article has suggestions for lowering cholestrol and if by happenstance you are doing those things then you might consider changing.
