Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Center for Diseases and Control. This disease has always been associated with cholesterol, which is believed to be bad for health. That’s why a lot of people would say not to eat foods that are high in cholesterol. However, did you know that there is such a thing as good and bad cholesterol?
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of lipid characterized by a waxy, fat-like substance produced by the liver naturally. It is essential for the formation of cell membranes, certain hormones, and vitamin D.
Cholesterol doesn’t dissolve in water, such that it cannot travel through the blood on its own. That’s why the liver produces lipoproteins that carry cholesterol and triglycerides through the bloodstream.
Types of Lipoprotein
There are two major types of lipoprotein—low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Take note of the following:
- Bad cholesterol: This is associated with the Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which carries cholesterol to your arteries. The cholesterol can build up on the artery walls if the level is too high, causing cholesterol plaque. As a result, this plaque can narrow the arteries, restrict blood flow, and increase the risk of blood clots.
- Good cholesterol: This is associated with the High-density lipoprotein (HDL), which assists in returning the LDL cholesterol back to the liver to be eliminated from the body. For this reason, it helps prevent cholesterol plaque in the arteries. Hence, a high level of HDL can reduce the risk of blood clots, heart disease, and stroke.
- Triglycerides: This is another type of lipid that’s different from the cholesterol used by the body as a source of energy. When you eat more calories than your body can burn, your body converts these calories into triglycerides stored in your fat cells. Eating more calories increases the triglyceride levels that can lead to health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.
Given all these health information, it’s best to consume more HDL than LDL to prevent health problems. It’s best as well to avoid eating too many calories to prevent your body from getting health diseases.
Cholesterol checkup and health tips
It’s important to monitor your cholesterol level to prevent developing any health diseases. The American Heart Association recommends getting the cholesterol levels checked at least once every four to six years for regular healthy and active individuals. For those who have a history of high cholesterol, they may need to get tested as often as possible.
It’s best to monitor what you’re regularly eating. For the most part, you have to pay special attention to saturated and trans fats on your food labels, as well as added sugars. Ultimately, the less you consume these, the healthier you become.
Conclusion
Overall, it’s best to have a healthy lifestyle by eating properly, working out regularly, and avoiding tobacco products. Also, it helps to check your cholesterol levels every now and then, and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
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