Abnormal cholesterol metabolism is part of a larger grouping often referred to as Disorders of Lipid Metabolism. Only some lipid disorders involve cholesterol, which is one of many lipids produced in the body. Abnormal cholesterol metabolism can be life-threatening and debilitating. Disorders that result in abnormal cholesterol metabolism include Niemann-Pick disease, Wolman's disease and Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis, according to the Merck Manuals online library. Less severe cholesterol problems, such as elevated blood cholesterol levels, increase risk for heart disease, heart attacks and strokes, says the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
Cholesterol
You get cholesterol two ways: your body and diet. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is produced by the liver. You need a certain amount of cholesterol to carry out bodily functions. However, this level can get too high if the liver produces too much, which can be the result of a genetic disorder, or if you have a diet that is too high in cholesterol and saturated fats, the Merck Manuals says. The two main types of cholesterol are "good" cholesterol, or HDL, and "bad" cholesterol or LDL.
Concerns
As stated by the most recent report from the Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment for High Blood Cholesterol in Adults, "The higher your blood cholesterol level, the greater your risk for developing heart disease or having a heart attack." Normal range for total cholesterol is less than 200 mg/dL, borderline is 200-239 mg/dL and high is 240 mg/dL and above. Your cholesterol can be tested in your doctor's office with a simple blood test.
Diet Therapy
According to The Nutrition Source, published by the Harvard School of Public Health, it is important to replace unhealthy fats with healthy ones versus following a low-fat diet. Healthy fats include vegetable oils and margarine versus lard and butter, and choosing lean meats and low-fat dairy, which include fish, chicken, turkey and eggs. Supplements such as fish oil and niacin can improve cholesterol levels. Talk with your doctor or dietitian to see if you may benefit from these dietary supplements.
Exercise
Maintaining a healthy weight for your age and height, along with regular activity, are an important part of controlling cholesterol levels. The Expert Panel recommends "30 minutes of physical activity on most days, if not all. It can help raise HDL and lower LDL and is especially important for those with high triglyceride and/or low HDL levels who are overweight."
Medications
If diet and exercise cannot keep cholesterol levels in a safe range, your doctor can prescribe several types of medications. The most popular, and generally most effective if tolerated, is known as a statin. Other medications commonly used to treat high cholesterol levels include bile acid sequestrants, nicotinic and fibric acids and cholesterol absorption inhibitors. You and your doctor can determine which is right for you, as the choice depends on your family and healthy history, lifestyle and finances.
