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5 Things You Must Know About Cholesterol

1. is a form of lipid produced by liver and ileum in humans and animals and cannot be dissolved in the blood. Certain foods also contain cholesterol which contributes to its levels in the body. It is also present in the cell membranes whose function is to synthesize provitamin D, hormones like sex hormones, steroids and bile salts. Though cholesterol is required in our body for various functions, when its levels are increased it causes serious health issues and therefore one should monitor it constantly.

2. There are two types of cholesterol. Good cholesterol is the High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and bad cholesterol is the Low Density Lipoprotein. Along with this, Lp(a) and Triglycerides together form the cholesterol family. The reason regarding this good and bad distinction is related to their disease causing and preventing effect. When there is an increase in the levels of bad cholesterol, it starts to build up on the inner walls of the heart arteries that carry blood to the heart and brain thus limiting the free flow of blood. On the other hand, increase in good cholesterol carries its molecules towards the liver and away from the heart where it is synthesized. Therefore, it is vital to maintain a low LDL in the body to prevent heart attacks.

3. Three factors that effect high cholesterol are Obesity, diet and heredity. Though the heredity factor cannot be treated or avoided, it is important to manage personal health through intake of right diet and management of obesity. Certain foods with high cholesterol contents like saturated fatty acids, fats, liver, red meat, cakes, pastries, cheese etc should be consumed in limited amounts. Foods like oats, fruits and vegetables that are rich in fiber content decreases the cholesterol levels. Regular exercise along with a balanced diet is the most rewarding solution when it comes to maintaining obesity. It also helps in reducing the chances of heart related problems.

4. Heart attack and high blood pressure are most prevalent for those with irregular levels of cholesterol. When the LDL level is high, the plaque or blockage on the heart arteries slowly leads to heart problems like heart attacks. It will then lower the HDL levels and cause to have high blood pressure due to the restricted movement of blood circulation. Smoking and drinking too much alcohol will also contribute to the constriction of blood vessels thereby causing high blood pressure.

5. The normal rang of cholesterol is considered as 150-200 mg/dl while the level occurring between the range of 200-250mg/dl is either in borderline or suspected range. However, when it crosses the range of 250 mg/dl, action must be taken and medical advice should be taken as it is considered high and beyond normal range. It is essential to check the cholesterol levels regularly because it can become imbalanced or increase anytime as age does not matter in this case. It can happen anytime, at any age and most of the time does not show particular symptoms. Also there are no distinctions as to whether men or women are effected more and therefore everyone should be aware of its health indications as well as know how to manage it.