One Big Health Nut

Cholesterol is a substance found among fats in your bloodstream and your body’s cells. It is used to form cell membranes and hormones and is required for other body functions as well. Although cholesterol is required for normal body functioning, a high level of cholesterol is a key risk factor for coronary heart disease. Cholesterol cannot dissolve in your blood. It must be transported from your cells by lipoproteins.

There are two types of lipoproteins: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Low-density lipoproteins are the main carriers of cholesterol through the blood. If your body has a high level of LDL cholesterol, it can cause a plaque to form in your arteries. This condition is called atherosclerosis. It blocks blood flow to the essential organs of your body and inhibits their functioning. Your LDL level should be below 160 mg/dl. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are considered good cholesterol. HDL carries the cholesterol away from your arteries and to your liver. It helps protect your body against adverse conditions created by LDL. Your body benefits from a higher level of HDL cholesterol.

Cholesterol in your body is attained in two ways. Your liver produces about 1000 milligrams of cholesterol daily. Cholesterol is also ingested through foods. Your liver produces enough cholesterol naturally to satisfy your body’s requirement. It is recommended that you ingest very little LDL cholesterol from foods. Animal foods usually contain cholesterol. The American Heart Association recommends limiting cholesterol intake to 300 milligrams a day. Avoiding trans-fats and saturated fatty acids is also recommended to reduce cholesterol levels.

You can affect your cholesterol levels by effecting change in your daily habits. Eating a healthy diet is important. Physical activity has been shown to increase good cholesterol (HDL) which lowers your bad cholesterol (LDL). And quitting smoking will also help. Smoking lowers your HDL levels and increases your chances of blood clots. Cholesterol is just another good reason to try to exercise more and eat healthy.