Cholesterol is a waxy-type substance in your body that is used to manufacture new cells and maintain good health. Two types of cholesterol circulate through the body: high-density lipoprotein or the "good" cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein or the "bad" cholesterol. While you need cholesterol for good health, excess amounts in your body can be harmful.
Manufacture
To know where cholesterol is in your body, you must first know how it is manufactured. Your liver produces fats from the proteins, carbohydrates and fats you take in from your daily diet. The liver manufactures between 700 mg and 900 mg of cholesterol a day -- enough to keep you healthy. However, you also have cholesterol in the foods you eat -- the average American takes in about 300 mg to 500 mg of added cholesterol a day.
Where You Find It
The liver releases the cholesterol manufactured into your blood. However, cholesterol is an oily substance, which does not mix with water. The liver coats the cholesterol molecule in protein. This is known as a lipoprotein molecule. The lipoprotein molecules are then transported in your blood. This is why your physician can measure your cholesterol levels through a blood test. Your cells will use this circulating cholesterol to manufacture hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. If cells or tissues in your body need extra energy or repair, lipoprotein molecules will travel to these areas.
Excess Amounts
If your cholesterol levels are healthy, the lipoprotein will continue to be stored in your cells. However, excess LDL cholesterol in the cells may be deposited to your arteries. These LDL particles especially have a tendency to build in the arteries leading to your heart and brain, which is why excess amounts of LDL increase your risk for heart attack and stroke. When you have too much LDL stored in your arteries, blood cannot flow through efficiently. High LDL cholesterol can be a hereditary trait. Some people's livers have a tendency to produce excess cholesterol. If you add this with too much cholesterol in your daily diet, you could potentially experience heart disease.
HDL's Role
Your HDL cholesterol is called the "good" cholesterol in your body because it circulates in your blood, removing excess LDL cholesterol from storage in your tissues. The HDL will take the HDL cholesterol to your liver. Although the liver is responsible for manufacturing cholesterol, it will also eliminate the excess LDL from the body.
References
- Ask Dr. Sears; Cholesterol Facts You Should Know; Dr. Barry Sears; 2006
- The Body; Cholesterol and Triglyceride Problems; December 2005
- Iowa State University; Cholesterol in Your Body; Elisabeth Shafer, Ph.D. and Diane Nelson
- University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Cholesterol Is Necessary for the Body to Function Properly; October 2006
