New research indicates that cholesterol can disrupt electrical currents that make the heart beat, causing it to pump in an irregular way or stop altogether.

The findings come from researchers at the University of British Columbia. They discovered that a key protein in the transmission of electrical charges through the cells of the heart is blocked by cholesterol. This can cause mild to severe arrhythmia or stop the heart entirely.

Until now, the way arrhythmias developed was poorly understood, and drugs that dealt with this problem typically had a number of side effects. Statins that are used to deal with high cholesterol also have side effects.

"There is recent clinical and experimental evidence that lipid-lowering therapy, such as statins, can restore normal heart rhythms, thus helping to prevent sudden death," said Dr. David Fedida, one of the study’s lead researchers. "However, these pharmacological effects of statins are poorly understood and could involve other effects than their well-understood reduction of the cholesterol in blood vessels."

Those interested in alternatives to statins for cholesterol reduction may want to consider boosting the fiber content in their diets, which can help reduce serum cholesterol. Funegreek and artichoke leaf may also have this effect.