Understanding the Mysteries of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy and sparingly soluble substance found in animal bodies including the human beings. The very word cholesterol spreads fear. Cholesterol, like many other body constituents is usually measured in the blood because of the ease involved. Cholesterol has always been associated with certain types of foods. For example, trans fats and saturated fats are believed to elevate the blood cholesterol levels. However, the body is capable of producing significant quantities of cholesterol. Liver is the major site of cholesterol formation. The liver accounts for about 75% of the circulating cholesterol.

What is Atherosclerosis?

High blood cholesterol levels have been associated with increased plaque formation in the arteries. When plaques are formed in the arteries, the space available for blood flow is reduced. The process of plaque formation is called atherosclerosis. It is this process which at some stage, may lead to the onset of a heart attack.

Role of HDL and LDL

Cholesterol, being sparingly soluble, is carried in the circulation by certain proteins called lipoproteins. The most prominent among these are HDL and LDL. HDL is believed to carry good cholesterol and LDL is supposed to carry bad cholesterol. This has to do with the way these two lipoproteins transport cholesterol. HDL carries cholesterol to the liver from the tissues to be transformed into harmless products. LDL carries cholesterol to the tissues from the liver. This makes the arteries vulnerable. Boosting HDL has other advantages. HDL is also an antioxidant. HDL also boosts the immune system.

Inflammation also Plays a Role

The mere transport of cholesterol by LDL is not enough to produce plaques. Plaque formation is promoted by inflammatory reactions. Inflammatory reactions can be checked by measuring an inflammatory marker called C-reactive protein. This compound increases whenever inflammation in the body increases. In fact, increased C-reactive protein value in the blood is one of the tests for heart disease. Healthy foods can decrease both cholesterol, LDL and C-reactive protein in the body.

Monitor Your Cholesterol

Men are more susceptible to the effects of high blood cholesterol levels. Women are protected up to menopause. Thereafter, they also become vulnerable. Contrary to the general belief, many children also exhibit high blood cholesterol levels. Hence, they also should be checked for cholesterol concentrations.

Keep Cholesterol Under Check

Why is high blood cholesterol considered to be dangerous? Increased cholesterol predisposes not only to heart disease it also promotes stroke as well as dementia like Alzheimer’s disease. Simple lifestyle and dietary changes can help to lower the blood cholesterol levels.

· Quit smoking. This has other advantages.

· Reduce weight. This gives many other benefits.

· Exercise helps in several ways. Exercise also boosts HDL values.

· Spices like fenugreek seeds and herbs like tulsi (holy basil) also have a positive effect on the blood cholesterol levels and counter diabetes.

· Stress management is equally important.

· Fish, spinach and nuts support a healthy heart.