Optimizing Cholesterol: Strategies for Maintaining a Healthy Level
Controlling cholesterol. Every
animal cell, both human and non-human, contains cholesterol. Cholesterol is
important in certain cell functions and the liver produces all the cholesterol
the body needs. No need to eat cholesterol in one’s diet Cholesterol is found
only in animal products, meat, fish, poultry, dairy products and eggs and not
in plant products. Cholesterol and fat are transported around the body in
protein packages called lipoproteins. Bad: Cholesterol is stored in low-density
lipoproteins called Ldls that carry cholesterol through the arteries to the
organs. These Ldls deposit their load through the inner walls of the arteries.
This process encourages the
growth of deposits called plaque, which eventually narrow the artery wall and
obstruct blood flow. This is what we call atherosclerosis. Now the good
cholesterol found in high-density lipoproteins called HDLs travels back to the
liver where it is discarded. People who exercise, don’t smoke and stay at their
ideal weight have higher HDL levels. Since the majority of cholesterol is in
the form of Ldls, high blood cholesterol means high Ldl levels.
Blood cholesterol levels are
affected by many factors, but people with a genetic predisposition to heart
disease can also do something about their cholesterol levels. Adding soluble
fiber to the diet, such as oats, barley, beans, and some fruits and vegetables,
are great sources to help lower cholesterol. Maintaining your ideal weight
helps raise HDL levels. Studies show that people who eat fewer meals throughout
the day have lower cholesterol levels. Exercise improves overall health
cholesterol levels along with relaxation techniques to reduce stress.