Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance produced by the liver and found in all cells of the body. While it is essential for building cells and producing certain hormones, excess cholesterol in the bloodstream can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Here’s an overview:

1. Types of Cholesterol

• LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) – Often called “bad” cholesterol, LDL can build up on the walls of arteries, forming plaques that narrow and harden them, leading to atherosclerosis.
• HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) – Known as “good” cholesterol, HDL helps transport excess cholesterol from the arteries back to the liver, where it can be broken down and removed from the body.
• Triglycerides – Although not technically cholesterol, triglycerides are fats in the blood that, when high, can contribute to artery hardening alongside high LDL.

2. Cholesterol Level Categories

• Total Cholesterol
  • Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL
  • Borderline High: 200-239 mg/dL
  • High: 240 mg/dL and above
• LDL Cholesterol
  • Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
  • Near Optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
  • Borderline High: 130-159 mg/dL
  • High: 160-189 mg/dL
  • Very High: 190 mg/dL and above
• HDL Cholesterol
  • Low (Risk Factor): Less than 40 mg/dL (for men), less than 50 mg/dL (for women)
  • Desirable: 60 mg/dL or higher
• Triglycerides
  • Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL
  • Borderline High: 150-199 mg/dL
  • High: 200-499 mg/dL
  • Very High: 500 mg/dL or higher

3. Causes of High Cholesterol

• Diet: Foods high in saturated and trans fats, like red meat, dairy products, and fried foods, raise LDL cholesterol.
• Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles can lead to higher LDL and lower HDL levels.
• Genetics: Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol levels from a young age.
• Age and Sex: Cholesterol levels naturally rise with age, and after menopause, women’s LDL levels often increase.

4. Health Risks of High Cholesterol

• Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup narrows arteries, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of blood clots.
• Heart Disease: Higher cholesterol increases the risk of heart attack due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.
• Stroke: Reduced blood flow to the brain caused by a clot or plaque rupture can lead to a stroke.
• Peripheral Artery Disease: Plaque buildup in arteries supplying blood to limbs can cause pain and limited mobility.

5. Managing Cholesterol Levels

• Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help manage cholesterol levels.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps increase HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
• Medications: Statins, niacin, bile-acid-binding resins, and other medications may be prescribed to manage cholesterol if lifestyle changes aren’t sufficient.
• Regular Monitoring: Blood tests to check cholesterol every 4-6 years, or more often if levels are high or there’s a family history, help track changes.

Understanding and managing cholesterol is essential for reducing cardiovascular risks and maintaining heart health.