Published online by Cambridge University Press: 18 September 2015
This paper reviews the relationship between cholesterol and psychological functioning. Possibly a relationship exists between the lowering of cholesterol, low serum cholesterol concentration and mood and/or impulse control disorders. This might be associated with a disregulated cerebral serotonin metabolism. These hypotheses are based on (meta-analyses of) epidemiologic research investigating the lowering of cholesterol. One of the findings was an increased mortality due to suicide, homicide and accidents. Much is still unknown about the matters mentioned above. However, recommendations for research and clinical psychiatric practice are formulated.