High levels of LDL cholesterol, or low density lipo-protein cholesterol, are responsible in heart disorders such as atherosclerosis. LDL is also the main factor that causes high cholesterol in people. Doctors and medical researchers have long advocated the importance of lowering LDL levels in the body to maintain proper heart function, but the production of LDL cannot be completely stopped by the body.
Functions
LDL is the main carrier of cholesterol in the body. It circulates cholesterol in the blood, where it is absorbed by cells through the plasma membrane for maintaining various biochemical processes. It is said that LDL also aids in treating some infections by working with the immune system, although this has not been verified. LDL is produced by the body itself. It is a regular biochemical process of the body, so nonproduction of LDL is not possible. If consumption of fatty acids through food is completely eliminated, then the body will continue to produce LDL on its own.
Problems
If your diet contains too much saturated fatty acids, then the LDL levels increase, causing it to build up along the walls of the arteries, slowly blocking them. This causes atherosclerosis, one of the major culprits of heart related disorders. According to the American Heart Association, such a plaque can block arteries in such a way that it may also stop blood supply to the brain.
Medication
Your doctor may prescribe statins, such as Lipitor or Zocor, if you have high cholesterol. High cholesterol is defined as a total cholesterol level over 240 mg/dL or LDL level over 130 mg/dL. There are very rare side effects to using statins such as muscle and liver problems.
Diet and Exercise
Although it is important to make healthy food choices and reduce your intake of saturated fat, the Harvard Medical School states that changing your eating habits to lower cholesterol will only help you achieve a 4 to 13 percent reduction in cholesterol. If your cholesterol is high, you may need statins, which can lower your LDL levels by 30 to 40 percent. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains do not contain cholesterol and are a healthy option for you if you are trying to lower your cholesterol.
Regular physical activity can increase good cholesterol levels in some people. Exercise can also help control high blood pressure, diabetes and weight.
Optimum LDL Levels
Optimum LDL levels are based on the health condition of the patient. Those who have been diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases should maintain an LDL level of less than 70, while those with no reported heart problems must maintain an LDL level of less than 160.
