1). Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs to build cells, make hormones and produce vitamin D.
2). While your liver produces all the cholesterol your body requires, you also absorb it directly from animal-based foods in your diet 3). Because it cannot dissolve in your blood, cholesterol relies on proteins called lipoproteins to travel through the bloodstream
4). Cholesterol is primarily broken down into two main types:
i). Low-Density Lipoprotein(LDL) that is often called bad cholesterol whose high levels lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attacks and stroke
ii). High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) that’s called good cholesterol. HDL helps carry bad cholesterol away from your arteries and back to the liver to be processed and flushed out of the body.
5). Knowing the levels of cholesterol in your body matters because:
i). too much LDL cholesterol in your bloodstream combines with other substances to form plaque which narrows and stiffens your arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis
6). Your cholesterol levels are largely influenced by a combination of genetics and lifestyle habits
7). Cholesterol level
can be managed or improved by:
i). Taking regular blood tests to monitor the level of cholesterol in your body as high cholesterol usually has no symptoms
ii). Limiting foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and added sugars, and focusing on fibre-rich vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
iii). Engaging in regular physical activity
iv). Using doctor-prescribed medications if diet and lifestyle changes are not enough.
#cholesterol #genetics #lifestyle #health #diet #nutrition
