About one out of every six American adults has high blood cholesterol. However, cholesterol is needed in the body to perform correctly. It is mostly produced by the liver but also comes from the food you eat. Poor eating habits and a lack of exercise can contribute to high cholesterol, but it can also be inherited. Knowing and understanding your cholesterol numbers is the first step in controlling your cholesterol levels.
Identification
Cholesterol is a fatty substance resembling oil and water, according to the Cholesterol Doctor website. In order for it to travel through the bloodstream, it requires the help of lipoproteins to carry it. There are two types of cholesterol, low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein. These lipoproteins have fat on the inside and protein on the outside. The ratio of low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein is more important than your total cholesterol number. The lower your low density lipoprotein number and the higher your high density lipoprotein, the better your cholesterol profile will be.
Function
Cholesterol plays a role in building new cells, nerve sheaths and producing hormones. The job of low density lipoprotein, or LDL, is to carry cholesterol from the liver to sites of metabolism, according to the Cholesterol Doctor website. High density lipoprotein, or HDL, carries excess LDL back to the liver for elimination from the body. If there is too much LDL in the blood, HDL may not be able to get rid of the excess. LDL cholesterol can build up on the artery walls, causing a clog in the blood vessels, resulting in a lack of oxygen going to the heart.
HDL Sources
The Mayo Clinic suggests not smoking, losing weight, exercising more and limiting alcohol intake as part of a healthy lifestyle for raising HDL cholesterol levels. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, olive oil, almonds and walnuts can also help raise "good" cholesterol, HDL. Other foods that are able to raise HDL levels are soy products, garlic, onions, canola oil and green leafy vegetables.
LDL Sources
A healthy lifestyle of no smoking, exercising regularly, drinking moderately and maintaining a healthy weight will go a long way in keeping your cholesterol levels low. The Healthy Heart Guide website suggests staying away from trans fats and hydrogenated oils often found in processed, refined and fried foods. Foods that contain sugar, such as cakes, cookies, crackers and candy should be limited or eliminated from your diet. Starchy foods that have carbohydrates, like pasta, potatoes and breads, should be eaten in moderation as an excess of these foods can raise cholesterol levels. Choose more fruits, vegetables and whole grains to help lower your cholesterol.
Considerations
Though high cholesterol may be inherited, it can still be treated. If, after a change to a healthy diet with exercise, your cholesterol levels are still high, your doctor may suggest medication. According to the Mayo Clinic, niacin is often used to help increase HDL levels, as are fibrates. Statins are also a popular medication which lowers numbers by blocking the liver from making cholesterol.
