lower GI tract is a place of active transport of nutrients into
circulation. It’s quite a selective system, but as a result of
our Western diets and lifestyles, the barrier that controls
these transactions can become inappropriately porous,
allowing LPS to seep through.
One way our bodies may provide a means of damage
control is by sending LDL cholesterol carriers to the rescue,
like firemen tasked with putting out a fire. It’s believed that
LDL particles serve an antimicrobial purpose, containing
docking sites called LPS-binding proteins that allow them to
soak up renegade LPS.^17 When the liver senses that LPS has
entered circulation via inflammation signaling, it ramps up
production of LDL to bind and neutralize it. A chronically
“leaky” gut may therefore drive LDL through the roof. On
top of that, once the LDL binds with LPS, the endotoxin
may affect the liver’s ability to dispose of these toxin-
carrying particles, creating a double whammy of trouble. A
small but increasing number of cardiologists believe heart
disease to originate in the gut for this very reason.^18
Here are just some of the ways you can protect your gut
to promote healthy LDL levels:
Consume lots of fiber. Dark leafy greens like spinach
and kale are excellent sources of fiber, along with
asparagus, sunchokes, and alliums like garlic, onions,
leeks, and shallots. Start slow and work your way up
to avoid any digestive discomfort.
Double down on raw probiotic-containing foods.
Kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha—my personal
favorite—are great options.