Cholesterol

The term cholesterol is referred to as a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. It helps in digesting fats, strengthening cell membranes and making hormones. Although cholesterol serves many important functions in the body, too much cholesterol in the blood can be dangerous for health. When blood cholesterol reaches high levels, it can build up on artery walls, increasing the risk of blood clots, heart attack and stroke.

The bloodstream transports cholesterol throughout the body by special carriers called lipoproteins. The two major lipoproteins are low density lipoproteins (LDL) and high density lipoproteins (HDL). Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is known as the 'bad' cholesterol because it contributes to heart disease by sticking to and narrowing blood vessels. High density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is known as the 'good' cholesterol because it keeps LDL levels in check and helps protect against heart disease. HDL removes cholesterol from the blood by carrying it to the liver where it is metabolized. Therefore, it is beneficial to have high levels of HDL in the blood.

Tips to combat high cholesterol:
High cholesterol is associated with many factors such as genetics; obesity, inactivity and poor diet contribute to high cholesterol. Understanding how these factors affect your cholesterol is important in the prevention and treatment of high cholesterol.

Genetics
If you have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol, it is important to focus on those aspects, which you can control, rather than feeling genetically doomed. By maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and eating a low-fat, well-balanced diet you will decrease your chances of developing heart disease.

Weight
Accumulating excess weight is generally associated with increased total and LDL cholesterol. Every individual responds differently to weight loss, however most people find that blood cholesterol drops as weight decreases. The best way to lose weight and lower cholesterol is through increased activity coupled with low-fat eating.

Exercise
Exercise is very important in controlling cholesterol levels. Not only does total and LDL cholesterol tend to decrease with activity, but HDL cholesterol increases. In order to get this effect "aerobic" activity is best.

Diet
Diet is a major component of decreasing blood cholesterol. A proper diet can help lower cholesterol for several reasons. Diet modifications are essential for weight loss but can affect cholesterol levels even if weight remains unchanged. A diet devoid of fat is not a healthy diet. It is the amount and type of fat in the diet that is important in controlling cholesterol.