Cholesterol

There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) and high-density lipoproteins (HDLs). LDLs, also known as “bad cholesterol”, are responsible for moving cholesterol into the bloodstream, but they also tend to leave fatty deposits behind in the arteries. The job of HDLs, or “good cholesterol”, is to carry unneeded cholesterol away from the cells and back to the liver, where it is removed from the body.

The liver produces roughly 80% of the cholesterol needed by the body for proper functioning. If a person chooses to eat an abundance of high cholesterol foods, his cholesterol count can exceed the amount needed to keep the body in balance, resulting in high cholesterol. When too much cholesterol is in the bloodstream plaque builds up in the arteries, blocking blood flow to the brain, heart, kidneys, genitals and extremities.

High cholesterol is determined by taking a blood test. A cholesterol level of less than 200 is ideal; 200 to 239 is borderline; 240 and higher is considered high cholesterol. High cholesterol is responsible for many health problems, including heart disease, gallstones, impotence, mental impairment and high blood pressure.

Possible Causes of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is caused by several factors, some of which can be controlled and others that cannot. Controllable risk factors include diet, diabetes, hypothyroidism, weight, smoking and lack of exercise. Uncontrollable risk factors include lipid disorders and advancing age.

Possible Symptoms and Complications of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is a “silent” condition that does not cause recognizable symptoms. Many people do not realize they have high cholesterol until they develop an associated condition, such as atherosclerosis or stroke. By the time first symptoms start, damage to the arteries is usually severe.  Complications of high cholesterol include: Atherosclerosis, Heart Disease, Stroke, Death.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for High Cholesterol
The best ways to lower cholesterol is by altering lifestyle or taking doctor-prescribed medications. Eating low cholesterol foods, quitting smoking, exercising regularly and losing weight can significantly lower the risk of high cholesterol and will lower cholesterol in those with high levels. Drink fresh juices and eat plenty of fiber. Avoid eating nuts, butter, margarine, alcohol, sweets, carbonated beverages, coffee, white bread and all fried foods. Get moderate exercise daily and avoid stress whenever possible.