What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol ia s sterol (a combination of steroid and alcohol), a lipid found in the cell membranes of all body tissues. Cholesterol is insoluble in blood, but is transported in the circulatory system bound to one of the varieties of lipoprotein, spherical particles which have an exterior composed mainly of water-soluble proteins.
There are two types of lipoprotein take important role in the body:
1. HDL (igh Density Lipoprotein). This is known as the “good cholesterol” as it has a protective effect on the body, carrying harmful fatty deposits away from the arteries and back to the liver.
2. LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein). This is known as the :bad cholesterol” as it transports the fatty deposits to the tissues encouraging a build-ip on the artery walls. The LDL cholesterol is very sticky. This build-up causes a conditio called atherosclerosis which leads to the narrowing of the arteries, restricting blood flow and so increasing the risk of heart disease or stroke.
Cholesterol is important for the formation of cell membranes and hormones. It plays a part in the production of steroid hormones (such as Estrogen, Testosterone and Cortisone), the transportation of fats around the body, the creation of Vitamin D (vital for strong bones and teeth) and to build cell membranes.
Our body needs cholesterol and it is synthesized in the liver. The problem is not the cholesterol itself but in the excessive cholesterol – particularly the “bad “ LDL cholesterol which contributes to plaque build up in the arteries. The food we eat (particularly the saturated fat) can elevate LDL. An excess of LDL cholesterol can accumulate in the arteries that feed the heart and brain and this can lead to a heart attack. (The “good” HDL cholesterol contributes by taking away excess cholesterol).
October 9th, 2007 at 6:24 am
It give the informations of Cholesterol. Cholesterol is insoluble in blood, but is transported in the circulatory system bound to one of the varieties of lipoprotein, spherical particles which have an exterior composed mainly of water-soluble proteins.
April 2nd, 2008 at 1:27 am
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August 29th, 2008 at 8:57 pm
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