Cholesterol - good, bad ... Huh?

What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance that is stored in the content (fat) fat in the blood of a person. In fact, it is important that there be a certain amount of cholesterol, "good" in your system.

Can cholesterol body fat, and other we do not dissolve in the blood. Must be transported by special carriers called lipoproteins. Although there are many types of (too many to cover here), the two most important are the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL). A third type, which is the LP (a), which may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. We'll cover that one here, too.

HDL, LDL and Lp (a) ... What is it?

It is well known high density lipoprotein (HDL) and "good cholesterol." Most experts agree that HDL cholesterol transfer from the arteries to the liver where it is broken down and leaves the body through the process of natural drainage. A higher level of HDL appears to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Keep in mind, however, that the low level of HDL in the body (-40 mg / dL in men, -50 mg / L in women) is a warning signal of a higher risk of one or two.

HDL seems to remove excess cholesterol from plaques that accumulate in the blood vessels they have, and thus prevent or growth slowdown. This makes it very important for the human body. And 3.1 to 4.1 of cholesterol in the body by HDL.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) are the major carriers of cholesterol in our blood. One can experience accumulated on the walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain, if too much LDL enters the bloodstream. When combined with other materials, and they form plaques. Plaques hard, thick coatings that can clog arteries and reduce the flow of blood to the heart or brain. If the blood is moving fast enough, there is a risk of blood clots near the boards. When this happens in the arteries leading to the heart, and we are more at risk of a heart attack. If this happens in the arteries leading to the brain, and there is a high risk of stroke.

If LDL cholesterol is 160 mg / dL or more, and this is an indicator of increased risk of heart disease. And if you have already been diagnosed with heart disease, is highly recommended to maintain a level of less than 100 mg / dL.

Lipoprotein little is known (from the public), which can also cause a greater risk of LP (a) lipoprotein cholesterol. This is a variation of the plasma (the "fluid", which carries blood cells through the bloodstream SA) LDL. When LP (a) a higher level, it can grow faster buildup of plaque, which calls for doctors and specialists "arthersclerosis." Although there is no conclusive evidence equivalent to what LP (a) contribute to increased risk of heart disease, it is generally recognized that the natural pest that occur in the walls of the arteries of our contain substances may interact with them, and this can lead to the accumulation of fatty deposits.

Where do we get cholesterol?

The general consensus is that the human body is able to produce cholesterol that we should stay in good health. Body - mainly in the liver - produces about 1000 mg per day. Therefore, the cholesterol consumed (by the average person eat traditional foods such as whole milk products, eggs, meat, poultry, fish and seafood) is not really necessary to maintain a level of health that are needs.

Two of the biggest culprits that contribute to the excessive consumption of saturated fats and cholesterol is saturated. But can consume fat in other foods also increase blood cholesterol. While removed some of the excess fat from the body through the liver, heart Most specialists recommend that the average person reduce / herself less than 300 mg per day. If you have been diagnosed with heart disease, and this should be a level less than 200 mg per day. If diagnosed with high cholesterol, there may be a need to more drastic measures to bring it under control.

How can I control my drinking?

Proven and recognized measure of control is to reduce the intake of no more than six ounces of lean meat / fish / chicken a day and consume only low fat / low-fat dairy products. Can be found effective alternatives to protein essential for good health in the beans and vegetables with a high content of protein. And can be found on two excellent sources to identify foods that contain a high proportion of protein in:

And http://www.vegsoc.org/info/protein.htm

# Http://www.vegparadise.com/protein.html graphics

It is also recommended to rely on a system of regular exercise. Even a moderate amount of daily activity helps to increase blood circulation in the body. Physical activities such as walking alone, often described gardening, light yard work, housekeeping and slow dance and is ideal for those who need a daily routine to help control cholesterol.

A more intensive and include brisk walking, jogging, swimming and weightlifting. Exercise is a great way to increase breathing and heart rate.

Secondary benefits of the program of regular exercise to control weight, reduce the risk of diabetes, and helps maintain blood pressure at a healthy level. Moderate regular exercise also helps to strengthen the heart and lungs.

To smoke or not smoke ...

Most doctors and experts recommend that do not smoke. And proved that smoking increases the risk of heart disease. Is reduced to a large extent of oxygen, which is a necessary component for cardiovascular health and good. In addition, smoking is harmful levels of HDL cholesterol and increases the likelihood of blood clots, not to mention the risk of causing cancer in the body.

The effects of alcohol on cholesterol

It was found moderate alcohol consumption in some studies to enhance actually higher levels of HDL cholesterol. He said that we must assess the risk of alcoholism, obesity, stroke, high blood pressure, and some types of cancer, and sometimes depression. Moderate exercise (no more than 1-2 drinks per day for men and no more than 1 drink per day for women). And if you do not drink, do not start. There are better alternatives and safer to control his cholesterol.

Synopsis:

- HDL "good" cholesterol
- LDL is "bad" cholesterol
- Can help to reduce the practice of LDL and increase HDL
- Cholesterol can be controlled with a reasonable diet for many people
- Smoking can increase the risk of lower HDL cholesterol levels and the possibility of blood clots

Consult your doctor or health care professional before beginning any exercise program or alcohol as a way to control his cholesterol. And he or she can direct you to the steps that must be taken to ensure the best results for your efforts.

Have an annual checkup (usually a blood sample) to determine cholesterol. Be sure to discuss family history and other issues that the doctor may want to know before deciding whether to verify the existence of Lp (a) lipoprotein. And that it is capable of better assessment of risk, diagnosis and possible treatment (which may include medication) when fully informed.