Cholesterol: The risks, The Symptoms And How To Avoid High Levels Of It 

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance found in fats of the bloodstream and in blood cells. Cholesterol plays a crucial part in our bodies.   We need cholesterol in order to make hormones, vitamin D, bile acids, and to have healthier cell walls.

Symptoms And The Risks Of High Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol becomes a problem when the body produces too much of it.   A high cholesterol level does not produce any major signs or symptoms.   However, excess of cholesterol will clog blood vessels and increase your risk of having a heart disease and a stroke.   Have your cholesterol level checked by your doctor regularly to make sure you stay healthy and to avoid future complications.

Types Of Cholesterol 

There are two types of cholesterol, Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL)cholesterol and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol

LDL Cholesterol, also known as bad cholesterol, circulates in the blood and deposits cholesterol in the artery walls. Too much LDL cholesterol can narrow or block the arteries, which may cause atherosclerosis, heart attack or stroke.

HDL Cholesterol, or good cholesterol, has the opposite effect that LDL cholesterol has.   HDL cholesterol carries the cholesterol away from the arteries and transfers it to the liver. High levels of HDL cholesterol can help prevent a heart attack.   At the same time, low levels of HDL cholesterol may increase the chances of having a heart attack.

How Is High Cholesterol Diagnosed 

A high cholesterol level is usually diagnosed from a blood test.

Symptoms, How Do You Get It 

A high cholesterol level does not produce any major signs, but it will lead to serious disorders, such as coronary artery disease, stroke, or peripheral vascular disease.

How To Avoid A High Level Of Cholesterol 

Careful needs to be taken with the consumption of foods that contain saturated fat, which is what creates additional cholesterol for our body.  Saturated fat comes only from animal based food, such as eggs, meat, and dairy products.  The American Heart Association recommends that the fat intake be limited to 30% of the total calories.  You might need a lower fat intake if you’re overweight or a higher if you’re underweight.  To be safe, it is best that you ask your health care professional.