What is Cholesterol?
Created By: Dawson Meade
How does LDL and HDL differ structurally and Functionally?
Structure,
The differences between HDL and LDL, structurally, are that LDL is composed mostly of cholesterol. Around 50% and then around 25% is composed of protein. Now, HDL is composed mostly of protein. Around 50% and then around 25% is cholesterol.
Function,
The differences between HDL and LDL, functionally, are the LDL carries cholesterol through out the body to its cells. It can cause cholesterol to build up in your arteries, this buildup can eventually lead to arterial blockage and increased risk to and for heart disease, and stroke. Now HDL carries cholesterol away from the heart to other organs and back to the liver. (Kramps, Media)
How are the concentrations of LDL and HDL associated with the risk for heart disease and associated disorders?
What do the results of a cholesterol test mean? How do patients interpret each value.
Total Cholesterol - Below 200 mg/dl
LDL - In between 100 mg/dl and 129 mg/dl
HDL - 60 mg/dl or Below
Triglycerides - Below 150 mg/dl
(MayoClinic)
How does intake of unsaturated, saturated, and trans fats affect cholesterol levels and overall health?
Eating saturated fats raises your LDL. Trans fats, which are hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated saturated fats, should be eliminated completely from your diet. Studies have shown that trans fats stick to the blood vessels and cause an exponential rise in heart attacks. (Matzer)
Documentation
Mayo Clinic Staff, (N.D.) Cholesterol levels: What numbers should you aim for? Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/cholesterol-levels/art-20048245
Seale, Matzer (N.D.) How does your diet affect your cholesterol levels. Retrieved from
http://www.everydayhealth.com/cholesterol/experts-how-does-diet-affect-cholesterol-levels.aspx
WebMD, INC (N.D.) Heart Disease and Lowering Cholesterol. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/guide/heart-disease-lower-cholesterol-risk