Cholesterol Risks And What Affects Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol is described as fat-like and waxy in consistency. This is vital in one's body. Cholesterol works for our vitamin D, cell membranes, bile and hormones. It also contributes to our brain functioning. Liver produces cholesterol and it is the one responsible in transporting it all throughout the body. Aside from the innate source of cholesterol, food intake can also increase the level of cholesterol in the blood. That is the reason why people often ask if diets lower cholesterol.

There are two main types of cholesterol, the good and the bad. High density lipoprotein (HDL) is considered the good cholesterol while low density lipoprotein is considered the bad cholesterol. LDL is the one responsible in carrying the cholesterol from the liver to the entire body system. HDL functions to protect and collect reserves for the body. Therefore, LDL must stay in low levels and HDL must maintain a higher level.

When people turn 20 years old, he or she is recommended to have his lipoprotein checked. This is a simple blood test done to monitor your cholesterol level. Through this, risk for cardiovascular disease will be reduced. As soon as you have your cholesterol level checked, you can see four results. These include total cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and high and low density lipoprotein levels. Once one of them goes beyond or less than the normal value, specific treatments will be advised.

High cholesterol means you have excessive amounts of it in your blood. This will turn into plaque and will harden in the arterial walls. As a result, the arteries will become narrow and the blood passing through it becomes limited. Once a blockage exists in the coronary arteries then heart attack, myocardial infarction and stoke can occur.

Your weight, eating habits, age, gender, body structure, type of exercise and family history are few of the factors that can put you at risk. Usually, the first thing that needs immediate modification is the eating habits. Saturated and Trans fat must be avoided. Animal and dairy products are the main source of these substances. Beneficial fats include monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These reduce LDL levels in the blood. You can find these in nuts and fish. Also, you must include foods high in soluble fiber such as oats, grains and barley. They reduce the amount of cholesterol in significant amounts.

Exercise is also vital if you are aiming for a normal cholesterol level. This technique creates a radical change in your lipid profile. The type of exercise you should do includes cardio plus strength and resistance. An ideal exercise must take 30 minutes daily and should be performed at least three times a week.

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