Cholesterol Facts

 

Facts about cholesterol

With all the news and warnings about the dangers of high cholesterol, many people think of cholesterol as a "bad" substance that should be completely eliminated from our lives. In fact, cholesterol performs several important functions in the body. To understand how cholesterol affects the body, we must first understand what cholesterol is.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is attached to fats in our bloodstream and is present in all cells of the body. Cholesterol comes from the food we eat and is made directly in the liver. Cholesterol is an important regulator in the bloodstream because it helps regulate the production of many cells as well as hormones. However, too high or too low a cholesterol level in the blood can be a very dangerous factor that often leads to a heart attack or stroke. Although cholesterol is prevalent in the bloodstream, it cannot disperse in the blood. Cholesterol moves throughout the body bound to lipids (fats).

There are two main types of cholesterol. The first type is called LDL cholesterol and the second is HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol, otherwise known as low-density lipoprotein, is considered "dangerous" cholesterol. LDL cholesterol can build up on artery walls. Over time, this plaque buildup blocks blood flow, reduces circulation, and causes stress and damage to the heart. This increases blood pressure and eventually leads to heart disease or a heart attack. Individuals who have higher LDL levels have a much higher risk of heart disease. Although LDL is influenced by genetics, there are several measures individuals can take to maintain safe LDL levels.

Another form of cholesterol is HDL, or high-density lipoprotein. HDL is considered "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is important to the body because this type of cholesterol helps filter LDL cholesterol from the lining of the arteries and also transports fat in the bloodstream (triglycerides) to the liver so it can be eliminated from the body. Even a high level of HDL is thought to be safe because it can help protect the heart from heart attack or stroke. A low HDL count could potentially lead to heart attack and stroke, but this is rare in people who eat a Western-style diet, which is typically high in both forms of cholesterol.

Most of the cholesterol in our bodies comes from the foods we eat. Foods high in fat, especially saturated and trans fats, contribute to high LDL cholesterol levels. Meat and dairy products are the main sources of LDL cholesterol, while leafy greens, fruits and nuts are more nutritious alternatives that have higher levels of HDL cholesterol. While genetics play a role in cholesterol levels, changing your diet is the most effective way to lower dangerous cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease and related health problems.

Certain natural substances in Vasacor, including plant sterols, fish oils and policosanol, have been shown in numerous clinical studies to be highly effective in supporting healthy cholesterol levels, especially when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. If you are concerned about your cholesterol level, now is the time to make a change and Vasacor can help.