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HOME / HEALTH ISSUES / CHOLESTEROL |
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What is
Cholesterol? Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance found among the lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and in all your body's cells. It's an important part of a healthy body, it's used to form cell membranes, some hormones and is needed for other functions. But a high level of cholesterol in the blood hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, which leads to heart attack. Types of Cholesterol Cholesterol is carried in the blood by molecules called lipoproteins. There are several different lipoproteins, but the three main types are: Low density lipoprotein (LDL). This is often known as bad cholesterol and is thought to promote arterial disease. It carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells and can cause a harmful build-up if there is too much for the cells to use. Normally, the blood contains about 70% of LDL, but the level will vary from person to person High density lipoprotein (HDL). This is often referred to as good cholesterol, and is thought to prevent arterial disease. It takes cholesterol away from the cells and back to the liver, where it is either broken down, or is passed from the body as a waste product. Triglycerides are another type of fatty substance present in the blood. They are found in dairy products, meat and cooking oils. Triglycerides are also produced by the liver. Those who are overweight, have a diet that is high in fatty or sugary foods, or drink a large amount of alcohol, have an increased risk of having a high triglyceride level. What Cause Cholesterol? Cholesterol plays an important role in the functioning of the entire body. It carries fat through the bloodstream to help build cells and hormones in the body, and helps the body to produce Vitamin D. However, if there is too much cholesterol in the body, it can be a contributing cause for many diseases.Our bodies produce 80 percent of our total cholesterol, with the remaining 20 percent coming from foods we consume. High cholesterol occurs when we consume more cholesterol in our diets than the body needs. There are several factors that can lead to high cholesterol. Eating a diet high in saturated fat and dietary cholesterol is the most common cause, but for some people it could be an inherited genetic condition. Being overweight or leading an inactive lifestyle can also be factors. Medical conditions including diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease can also cause increased levels of cholesterol. |
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