Bone marrow is a supple, fatty tissue that lies on the interior side of our bones. It is essential for making blood cells and is also used in cooking (e.g., bones from roasted marrow, bone broth). Culinarians and nutritionists have recently admired its rich, buttery flavor and high calorie content. However, given its high fat content, a crucial query is raised: Is bone marrow high in cholesterol, and if so, what does that mean for our health?
Bone marrow that is present in cows and lambs is full of healthy fats and rich in minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, B, and E. All of these make it a healthy ingredient that reduces inflammation and promotes joint health. In this blog, we will discuss bone marrow and justify the phrase –Is bone marrow high in cholesterol?
Bone Marrow and What it Means
Bone marrow is a type of spongy tissue and is mainly found in the center of bones. Its primary locations are in the thigh, hip, and spine bones. It produces billions of RBC daily, besides platelets and WBC. Additionally, bone marrow stores fat that can be converted to energy when required. Bone marrow is a part of all elements of blood cells. Its absence can be life-threatening as it is an integral part of the body.
Bone marrow is of 2 types namely:
- Red marrow produces red/white blood cells, and platelets
- Yellow marrow stores fat
Till the age of 7 red bone marrow accounts for the most of your bone marrow. With age, yellow marrow gently takes the place of red bone marrow.
Cholesterol Levels in Bone Marrow
Bone marrow is vital for the development of blood cells such as red blood cells (RBC), white blood cells (WBC), and platelets. Hematopoiesis is the medical term that is the creation of new blood cells to replace old or damaged ones.
According to various studies, the amount of cholesterol in 100 g of raw bovine bone marrow ranges from 91 to 190 mg. So without any question, bone marrow contains a good amount of cholesterol. A small serving can deliver 10–20% of daily recommended limits (300 mg/day).
Consuming moderate amounts of bone marrow cholesterol is generally regarded as a sign of a healthy diet.
The following explains why:
- For normal functioning of cells, cholesterol is vital as it builds hormones and other important chemicals in the body.
- Although cholesterol is abundant in bone marrow, the body may not typically use this bone marrow acquired cholesterol for its various internal workings.
- When you measure cholesterol levels, your total dietary pattern and daily practices are instrumental as compared to eating a specific food.
- If you have any special questions regarding cholesterol or other health queries, it is better to consult a trained nutritionist or a food specialist.
Benefits
1) Maintains a glowing skin, strengthens the bones,and joints: Bone marrow is rich in collagen, a type of protein found in the body. Collagen strengthens the bones, makes the skin elastic or gives it a fresh look. With age the production of collagen decreases that gives rise to wrinkles and a sagging skin.
2) A decrease in Inflammation: Bone marrow is rich in glycine and conjugated linoleic acid. And these are known to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
When research was done for 2 weeks in 23 men, the scholars found that taking 5.6 grams of CLA per day effectively decreased levels of specific proteins involved in inflammation, a cytokine and C-reactive protein.
3) A source of nourishment: Bone marrow accommodates fat and calories in high levels with an ample quantity of vitamin B12.
The recommended daily intake (RDI) of nutrients and minerals in 100 grams of reindeer bone marrow is as follows:
- Riboflavin: 39% of RDI
- Iron: 17% of RDI
- Vitamin E: 15% of RDI
- Thiamine: 2% of RDI
- Vitamin B12: 52%
- Vitamin A: 5% of RDI
Risks
As bone marrow is crucial for sustaining life, its failure can lead to bone marrow complications or various conditions if it is not able to produce the below elements:
- Required platelets
- RBCs or WBCs
As per statistics every year, out of 1 million babies 65 are born in the United States have inherited disorders that cause bone marrow failure. These syndromes can manifest with diverse signs that include:
- Anemia
- Low platelet counts
- Increased chance of infections
- Certain cancers
Conditions that are Associated with Bone Marrow
Leukemia, a rare blood and bone marrow cancer starts to develop when cells proliferate in an uncontrolled manner in the body. It is understood that faulty white blood cells are produced that function abnormally and indicate a sign of cancer. Thus resulting in a weakened immune system.
These conditions include the following:
- Polycythemia vera
- Multiple myeloma
- Aplastic anemia
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
Who Should Be Cautious?
- Individuals with high LDL cholesterol or heart disease
- People at risk for osteoporosis
- Individuals with Blood cancers
- Individuals with Genetic conditions
- Exposure to certain toxics
- People with low platelets count
- Individuals with a history of bone marrow biopsy
Care for Bone Marrow
No doubt bone marrow is crucial for blood production and performs a role in bone fitness.
Keep your bone marrow healthy by:
- Taking a food that is full of proteins i.e., lean meats, fish, beans, nuts, milk, eggs.
- Taking vitamins (iron, B9, B12).
- Treating diseases that have abnormalities of the bone marrow as a side effect.
Conclusion
Bone marrow is vital to form various components of the blood and store fat. The best way to keep your bone marrow healthy is to support the parts of your body that your bone marrow produces, like your blood, muscles and bones.
