CHOLESTEROL
HOW DOES CHOLESTEROL AFFECT YOUR HEALTH?
CHOLESTEROL
CHOLESTEROL
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Cholesterol is a fatty wax like substance circulating in the blood and therefore in all body cells. The body manufactures cholesterol from almost everything we eat.
Cholesterol is an essential body chemical used to produce hormones, bile acids, cell membranes and the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This fat soluble substance is found not only in the blood but also in the brain, spinal cord, and liver. In the diet, cholesterol comes from animal fats, oils, and egg yolks.
Three categories of cholesterol, all pertaining to lipoproteins. The 3 major categories are HIGH-DENSITY (HDL-C…the good guy), LOW-DENSITY (LDL-C…the bad guy), VERY-LOW DENSITY lipoprotein (VLDL-C). The GOOD CHOLESTEROL HDL-C contains more protein with less cholesterol and triglycerides – another fatty substance. HDL-C aids in cleaning out the arteries.
HDL stands for High Density Lipoprotein, the most desirable form of cholesterol. It acts as a water soluble protein container that houses total cholesterol, keeping it from circulating freely and destructively in the blood vessels. Because it restricts movements of cholesterol in the bloodstream; it is believed that high levels of HDL reduces the risk of heart attacks. An average rating of 55 HDL in women, and 45 HDL in men is considered healthy.
LDL-C is made up of little protein together with large amounts of cholesterol and triglycerides. Similarly, VLDL-C contains very small amounts of protein with limited amounts of triglycerides.
LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) actually deposits cholesterol in the blood vessels. IT IS THE BAD ONE! The growing ratio of LDL in the bloodstream is associated with the aging process. It can also play a role in the development of cancer because it tends to carry carcinogenic pollutants within its structure.
The ratio of HDL / LDL is a method of measuring the risk of heart disease. A HIGH LEVEL OF HDL and a LOW LDL is desirable. If your LDL is high reduce your intake of fats and reduce your caloric intake.
Vitamin C, niacin, and lecithin are believed to help reduce harmful cholesterol levels.
HOW DOES CHOLESTEROL AFFECT YOUR HEALTH?
Extra cholesterol concentrated in your bloodstream called: “Serum Cholesterol” is the major contributor to “Arterial Plaque”. Plaque is a fatty deposit that builds up in your arteries, narrowing the passages and impeding circulation.
When arteries are narrowed by plaque deposits, they become susceptible to blockage by otherwise harmless blood clots. When a blockage cuts off circulation to the brain, a “Stroke” occurs. When a blockage cuts off circulation to the heart, it is called a “Heart Attack”. With circulation impeded, the supply of oxygen to your muscles and organs is reduced and that means your general fitness suffers. REDUCED oxygen supply to the heart also causes “ANGINA”. (a painful heart).
To lower your LDL-C, you can lower dietary fat intake. But you need something else to help you increase and retain higher HDL-C concentrations.
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