What is Cholesterol?

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If you’ve heard cholesterol spoken about often but still wonder what it really is a brief summary is provided below.

Cholesterol is a waxy, soft fat that is found in the blood and in the cells of all human beings. As with other fats, it has to be carried through the bloodstream and to and from the cells. This is done by proteins called lipoproteins. There are five different kinds of lipoproteins:

1. High-density lipoproteins (HDL)
2. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL)
3. Very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL)
4. Intermediate-density-lipoproteins
5. Chylomicrons

About 80% of cholesterol is produced by the liver and is very important to the production of hormones by the cell membranes. It is also required for the production of vitamin D and bile acids which, in turn, help in the digestion of fats. Cholesterol is also believed to help the cell connections in the brain that are vital for learning and memory. However, these benefits are devalued when cholesterol levels increase. Depending on the type of cholesterol and the amount of its elevation, serious health risks can occur.

The required amount of cholesterol is produced by the body itself - normally about a thousand milligrams each day. This means that taking in cholesterol-rich foods as a result of eating animals products is not really necessary. Saturated fats from animal foods such as egg yolks, poultry, fish and dairy products are rich sources of cholesterol. Food derived from plants like fruits, vegetables, and nuts, among others, tend to be cholesterol free.

There are a number of factors which can influence one’s cholesterol levels. Some of these include: weight, diet, amount of exercise, age, gender, heredity, and some medications.

Health Risks of High Cholesterol

A lot of health dangers are associated with high cholesterol levels. Atherosclerosis is a dangerous disorder where fats, cholesterol and other substances stick to the walls of the arteries damaging them and suppressing the flow of blood. Arterial disease, more familiarly known as heart disease, is top of the list among causes of death in America.

Warning signs are often not evident for these health problems. Angina or heart attacks usually happen when cholesterol builds up and it is advisable for everyone above the age of 20 to have their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years. Being complacent may increase your risk factors and lead to poor health and greater medical expenses.

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