Understanding How Cholesterol Works

The human body is compiled of many different variables. One of the variables that regulates the blood stream is cholesterol. In order to understand how cholesterol affects the body, one must understand what cholesterol is. 

Cholesterol is a pliable substance that is attached to the fats and all of the cells that flow throughout the body.  Cholesterol is an important regulator in the bloodstream, as it helps to regulate the formation of many cells as well as hormones. However, to have too high or too low of a cholesterol count in the blood can be a very dangerous factor, often leading to a heart attack or a stroke. Although cholesterol is prevalent in the blood stream, it can not dissipate in the blood.  The cholesterol maneuvers throughout the body  on the lipids (fats). 

There are two main types of cholesterol. One type is called LDL cholesterol, and the other is HDL cholesterol. 

LDL Cholesterol

LDL cholesterol is other wise known as low-denstiy lipoprotein. Low density cholesterol is dangerous, as there can be a build up of such cholesterol in the blood stream, along artery walls.  Such a build up of LDL can affect volatile damage to the brain and heart. Such a buildup can cause clogging from the very thick plaque build up. When there is a large build up of LDL in the arty walls, there is very limited, if any , circulation of blood to the heart. The blood pressure in the body will drop dramatically, thus causing a heart attack.  Should there be a clot going to the brain, a stroke can occur. Individuals that have higher levels of LDL, also known as " bad cholesterol", run a much higher risk of having heart disease. Although LDL can be genetic, there can be many precautions that individuals can take towards  keeping safe LDL levels.

HDL Cholesterol

The other form of cholesterol is HDL, or high density lipoprotein. HDL is considered as the " good cholesterol".  HDL cholesterol is important for the body to have, as the " good cholesterol" is filtered to the liver as it is being taken away from the arteries. The liver then disposes the cholesterol and the body discretes it.  It is believed that even having high levels of HDL is ok, as it is to help protect one's heart from a heart attack, as well from having a stroke. However, low counts of HDL can be dangerous, and lead to a heart attack and stroke.

Clearly, there are many variables that can go into understanding cholesterol and how to maintain safe levels.  With a proper diet, as well as a regular exercise regimen, ones cholesterol levels can be kept under control, or even regulated. One can live a long and prosperous life when they have proper cholesterol levels.