mom sectionmom sectionEvery cell in the human body contains cholesterol, which is needed to produce certain hormones, make bile acid and to manufacture vitamin D. To ensure availability, the body makes its own supply in a biochemical process called cholesterol synthesis.
According to the American Heart Association, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) carries cholesterol throughout the bloodstream, along with high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL gets referred to as "bad cholesterol" due to the tendency for it to build up as plaque in artery walls. This buildup sometimes leads to a heart attack.
Cholesterol is an essential bodily substance necessary for life in all animals. Derived from diet and the body's own synthesis, cholesterol allows the body to function properly. An overabundance of cholesterol, however, is dangerous and can lead to heart disease.
Cholesterol is a type of lipid, or fatty substance, that travels in the bloodstream to all parts of the body where it is used to make cell membranes. It also assists in the production of vitamin D, bile and certain hormones. Therefore, in order for your body to function properly, it is essential to have healthy levels of cholesterol. There are two components of cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), that assist in carrying this substance through the blood. Too much LDL (the bad one) or too little HDL (the good one) can increase risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cholesterol is a fatty substance which travels through the bloodstream to the cells, where it is used to make cell membranes. It also assists with certain hormone production. For these reasons, it is essential to our good health. When measuring cholesterol levels it is important to be aware of both HDL (the good kind) and LDL (the bad kind). Too much LDL or too little HDL can increase risk of cardiovascular disease. HDL makes up about 1/4 to 1/3 the total cholesterol number and has a special role in the removal of extra LDL through the liver.
High cholesterol contributes to heart disease because it's part of the plaque that builds up in the lining of the arteries. Too much cholesterol isn't good, but some is still needed for health.
Most of us have heard how cholesterol levels that are too high are not good. But did you know that we do need some cholesterol in our blood? Some cholesterol in the blood plays a vital role in our health.
High cholesterol is something that many people, particularly those in America, find themselves struggling with every day. With all of the medications and the attention brought to the problems of having too much cholesterol though, people haven't been properly educated on just what cholesterol's purpose is, and what the reasons are that the human body needs it in the first place.
