What is Cholesterol? - How does it affect you?
Cholesterol is a compound found in our blood. It's an organic substance which makes up of three lipids, lipoprotein, a cholesterol-like substance, and a triglyceride. Cholesterol itself isn't a threat to the body; it's simply the carrier of fat and other substances that the body wants to carry. Cholesterol is produced by the liver, and it is necessary for the transport of fat from food to our muscles and to other parts of the body. There is an abnormal increase in cholesterol levels known as hypercholesterolemia, and it results in the buildup of fat on the arterial walls.
Cholesterol is
basically an organic molecule. It's a saturated fat, which is a kind of lipid
composed mostly of saturated fats, fatty acids, and phospholipids. Cholesterol
production is usually regulated by hormones produced by the liver. Cholesterol
is also biosynthesized in all animal cells, and is a necessary structural
element of all cell membranes.
Cholesterols are not
only found in animal tissues; they are also found in plant tissues. Plant
cholesterol is known as catechol and it is found mostly in leafy green
vegetables and other plants. Cholesterols may also be found in some kinds of
seafood.
Cholesterols are
thought to be responsible for the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. This is the
type of cholesterol that forms plaques in arteries; it has been called the
"bad cholesterol" because it tends to accumulate in the arterial
walls.
The most common way
that cholesterol gets oxidized is by the conversion of LDL cholesterol into
oxidized LDL. This happens when the LDL cholesterol has been exposed to the
elements, such as sunlight or cigarette smoke. Cholesterols also get oxidized
in the presence of free radicals produced in the body.
High levels of LDL
cholesterol can cause arterial clogging, or atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is
the narrowing of the arteries. The arteries become narrowed because LDL
cholesterol becomes trapped between the arterial walls. As time goes by, this
leads to increased blood pressure in the artery walls, causing increased risks
of heart attacks and strokes.
If you have been told
that you have high cholesterol, you can start looking for ways to lower your
cholesterol. There are several options available. The most common of these are
diet and exercise. Your doctor can prescribe medication to help reduce LDL
cholesterol. But the most popular method is by dietary changes.
Cholesterols and their
conversion to oxidized cholesterol can be reduced by limiting the amount of
saturated fats, particularly those rich in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats. Foods
rich in vegetable oils, nuts, and whole grains may lower LDL cholesterol.
Fruits and vegetables
containing fiber can reduce LDL cholesterol, as well as low-fat dairy products,
low-fat meats and seafood. You should avoid processed meats and foods that are
high in saturated fats, like butter, cheese and bacon.
If you have already
had a heart attack or stroke, your doctor may want to do more testing to
determine if you actually have high cholesterol. He may also want to recommend
lifestyle changes that will increase your good cholesterol (HDL) and decrease
your bad cholesterol (LDL).
Cholesterols can also
be lowered by adding extra fiber to your diet. Foods that are high in fiber
include whole grains, vegetables, and beans.
Cholesterol can also
be lowered by drinking alcohol consumption, although it has been reported that
people who drink a lot of alcohol, particularly coffee, may have a higher than
normal level of cholesterol in their bloodstream. However, research has shown
that drinking alcohol does not necessarily lead to cardiovascular disease. So
if you want to know what is cholesterol, it is not the only thing to consider.
Exercise plays an
important role. Exercise will not only help you lose weight, but it can make
you feel better. It can also increase your heart rate and help to improve your
circulation.
Comments
Post a Comment