The Basics of Cholesterol

Cholesterol is very essential to the normal running of our body. Cholesterol is found in every cell of our body and has numerous functions. Cholesterol is a fat lipid, which is produced by the liver. Some plants are also known to synthesize cholesterol. In humans and animals, it is a waxy steroid, which is transported by blood.

Cholesterol has many functions in our body. The most important one is that as a lipid molecule it builds and maintains cell membranes present in the outer layer of body cells. Cholesterol plays and important role in preventing the crystallization of hydrocarbons in cell membranes and to determine cell permeability. One more important function of cholesterol is the production of bile. All these functions make cholesterol and important constituent of the should be aware that there are many different kinds of cholesterol present in the body.

Lipoproteins are the molecules that carry cholesterol in blood. These molecules mainly consist of lipids or fats and protein. There are three different kinds of lipoproteins present in the body these are low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and triglycerides.

Low-density lipoproteins are the main cause behind arterial diseases. Buildup of LLDs is considered bad for health hence LLD is also known as the bad cholesterol. Experts recommend believe that High-density lipoproteins fight arterial diseases. HDLs are considered as good cholesterols as they take cholesterols back to the liver where it is either broken or excreted thus preventing a buildup.

High cholesterol levels in the body can be the foundation of many conditions such as atherosclerosis commonly known as narrowing of arteries, risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack, angina or chest pain and other cardiovascular disease. High level of cholesterol also results in blood clot formation, which can block an artery or vein and lead to a stroke.

There are many factors, which contribute to high cholesterol levels. Some of these factors are nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, increased body weight, smoking and increased alcohol consumption. High cholesterol can be avoided if necessary modifications in lifestyle are made.

An active lifestyle is very important for a healthy body. Regular workout helps in keeping the body active.