Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood’s fats (lipids). Although your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, too much cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries (atherosclerosis). Plaque comprises fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows your arteries, decreasing blood flow and leading to a heart attack, chest pain, or stroke. High cholesterol can also increase your risk of other conditions, such as fatty deposits in your arteries (atheroma) and high blood pressure.
Where from it comes:
A small amount of cholesterol in necessary for the body to work properly. Cholesterol comes from the liver. It makes all the cholesterol your body needs. Cholesterol in your body comes from animal foods such as meat, poultry, and dairy products. These foods directly affect your liver which makes more cholesterol.
Types of cholesterol:
Cholesterol is of two types: LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is the “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the arteries and form plaque. This can block blood and oxygen flow to the heart, leading to a heart attack. HDL cholesterol is the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries.
Low cholesterol level:
A cholesterol level below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable for adults. However, a low cholesterol level in the body may have unexpected effects. For example, a low cholesterol level may be associated with an increased risk of death from any cause, according to a 2012 study. The study looked at data from over 12,000 adults and found that those with a cholesterol level below 160 mg/dL had a 33% higher risk of death than those with a cholesterol level of 160-199 mg/dL.
In addition, a low cholesterol level may also be associated with an increased risk of cancer. A 2013 study found that men with a cholesterol level below 140 mg/dL had a 24% higher risk of developing cancer than those with a cholesterol level of 140-159 mg/dL. So, while a low cholesterol level may be desirable, it is vital to be aware of the potential risks.
Symptoms of High cholesterol:
High cholesterol typically doesn’t cause any particular symptoms. It only causes emergency events in most cases. A heart attack or stroke can outcome of high cholesterol. However, some signs can be considered.
What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?
- High blood pressure.
- Overweight.
- Smoke.
- Abuse of alcohol and drugs
- Not to be physically active
Normal level:
For healthy adults, Total cholesterol levels should be under 200 mg/dl. Readings of 200–239 mg/dl are borderline high, and readings of 240 mg/dl are high cholesterol.
How can control cholesterol level:
If you have high cholesterol, you can do a few things to help control your cholesterol. One is to eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. You should also limit your intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol. Another way to help control your cholesterol is to exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. And finally, if you smoke, quitting smoking will also help manage your cholesterol. Your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins to help reduce your risk of heart disease.
Summary:
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood’s fats (lipids). Body use it for making hormones, bile acids and vitamin D. High cholesterol is a condition with too much cholesterol in the blood. It can be caused by lifestyle choices, such as a diet high in saturated fats, or it can be genetic. High cholesterol can be cause of heart disease and stroke. You can make lifestyle changes to lower your LDL cholesterol level if you have high cholesterol. These changes include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. You may also need medication to lower cholesterol.
Read More Here: Technewzbuz.com
