Numerous conditions can cause extremely low cholesterol levels. According to Dr. Dicken Weatherby, a naturopathic physician and author of the book “Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis,” decreased levels of cholesterol can lead to nervous system dysfunction and poor hormone synthesis, as well as increased levels of stress to the cardiovascular system. The immune system can also be affected by decreased cholesterol levels. Lifestyle factors and certain medical conditions are the most common cause of extremely low cholesterol.
Megaloblastic Anemia
Megaloblastic anemia, also known as pernicious anemia, may cause extremely low cholesterol levels. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, megaloblastic anemia is a rare disorder in which a person’s body does not absorb sufficient amounts of vitamin B-12 from the digestive tract, leading to a decreased red blood cell count. The UMMC states megaloblastic anemia is more common in people with northern European ancestry. Common signs and symptoms associated with megaloblastic anemia include low cholesterol levels, weak muscles, numbness and tingling in the extremities, difficulty walking, nausea, loss of appetite, weight loss, irritability, fatigue, diarrhea, smooth tongue and tachycardia, or increased heart rate. According to the UMMC, the treatment for megaloblastic anemia depends on a person’s age, overall health, medical history and expectations for symptom reduction.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism may cause extremely low cholesterol levels. The MedlinePlus website states hyperthyroidism is a condition in which a person’s thyroid gland – a large gland located on the front of the neck – generates excessive amounts of thyroid hormone. This condition is sometimes referred to as thyroid hyper-function or overactive thyroid. Possible causes of hyperthyroidism include increased consumption of iodine, Graves’ disease, inflammation of the thyroid due to viral infections, noncancerous growths on the thyroid gland, taking large amounts of thyroid hormone and tumors of the testes or ovaries. Common signs and symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism include low cholesterol levels, concentration problems, fatigue, goiter, heat intolerance, increased appetite and excessive sweating. Dr. Weatherby states low cholesterol levels seen in people with hyperthyroidism may be due to the excessive utilization of fatty acids by a metabolism that is excessively fast.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition can cause extremely low cholesterol levels and is particularly evident among the elderly, alcoholics and certain individuals in developing nations. According to MayoClinic.com, malnutrition can be caused by numerous factors, including health problems, low income, decreased social contact, depression, alcoholism and restricted diets. Common signs and symptoms associated with malnutrition include low cholesterol levels, fatigue, dizziness, weight loss, irritability, decreased immune function, swollen and bleeding gums, poor growth, bloated stomach, muscle weakness, osteoporosis and decreased reaction time. Dr. Weatherby states low cholesterol is a pattern commonly seen in vegetarians and people suffering from malnutrition, whose dietary intake of healthy fats might be low. The cholesterol levels of a person suffering from malnutrition will usually improve following the introduction of essential fatty acids into his diet.