Cholesterol

What is the role of cholesterol in the human body?

Cholesterol is necessary for bodily functions such as building new cells, insulating nerves and producing hormones. The liver makes the cholesterol normally needed by us. Saturated fats and animal products are the chief source of cholesterol in our diet. Cholesterol binds with protein molecules in the bloodstream to form various types of lipoproteins. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a dense, compact micro-particle that transports excess cholesterol to the liver, where it is altered and expelled in the bile. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a larger, less dense particle that tends to remain in the body. Very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) are molecules that transport triglycerides - chemical compounds that store fatty acids, an essential source of energy for our body.

What is this talk about ‘Good Cholesterol’ and ‘Bad Cholesterol’?

LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) is associated with increased risk of dying from coronary heart disease. This is also responsible for infiltrating the arterial wall and causing arteriosclerosis. People with arteriosclerosis are more prone to heart disease and stroke. Hence LDL is called ‘Bad Cholesterol'. HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) is not associated with such problems and is hence known as ‘Good Cholesterol'.

What are the readings the doctor will be looking for to confirm high blood cholesterol levels?

Three levels of cholesterol in the blood are measured most often: Total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and Triglycerides. A doctor may also request for a ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol and the level of LDL cholesterol.

What are the normal levels of Cholesterol in the blood?

Blood Cholesterol Levels   Total Cholesterol HDL LDL Desirable Normal levels Less than 200 mg/dl Above 35 mg/dl Above 35 mg/dl Borderline High risk levels 200-239 mg/dl   130-159 mg/dl High Risk levels 240 mg/dl or above less than  35 mg/dl 150 mg/dl or more It must be noted that for people with previous history of cardiovascular disease such as a heart attack, or surgery such as angioplasty, or open heart surgery, the ideal levels of total cholesterol and LDL in the blood should be lower.

Why is it that some people eat a lot and yet do not suffer from high cholesterol levels?

High cholesterol levels are associated with a genetic predisposition. Some families have low total cholesterol or high HDL cholesterol, regardless of their diet and lifestyle. Others have a predisposition to increased blood cholesterol levels. If such people follow a diet rich in saturated fats, they are bound to have high blood cholesterol levels. Since it cannot be predicted for sure who will suffer from heart disease due to cholesterol, it is better to keep cholesterol levels under check. Those who do strenuous physical work or exercises, are also found to have higher HDL levels than normal.

What is the treatment for high blood cholesterol?

The regular and obvious advice is to make a ‘Lifestyle Change.’ Having a diet low in fat and cholesterol, losing weight and exercising regularly are the best ways to lower cholesterol levels. Smoking is a habit that is strongly associated with high cholesterol levels. It is highly advisable to quit the habit. Apart from this, there are drugs that reduce cholesterol levels in the blood by blocking an enzyme used by the liver to manufacture cholesterol. These drugs are tolerated well by most patients but can sometimes produce unwanted side effects such as inflammation of the liver. Such drugs should be taken strictly only as per the advice of a doctor.