Cholesterol is a soft, fatty, wax-like substance that is made by your body. It is required in small quantities for the normal functioning of the body and can be found in some foods. Cholesterol is needed in the synthesis of bile to aid in digestion and in the production of hormones that influence growth, development and reproduction such as, cortisol, testosterone, progesterone and estrogen. There are two types of cholesterol available in your body: low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL.)
Cholesterol and Circulation
Cholesterol and blood interact the way oil does with water. The two do not mix, but cholesterol has to be transported in the blood. Lipoproteins are molecules of cholesterol and proteins and make it possible for cholesterol to be transported to cells through your blood stream. High levels of total cholesterol in your blood is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Your total blood cholesterol levels are made up of a fatty substance called triglyceride, LDL and HDL values. The effects of LDL and HDL in your body are different based on their functions.
Functions of LDL
Low density lipoprotein or LDL is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because high levels of it in your blood are linked to a high risk of heart disease. LDL cholesterol is needed in the maintenance of your cell membranes. It is transported to all the cells in your body through your blood stream. Once it gets to your cells, it is taken up into the cells by LDL receptors located on the surface of the cells. Hypercholesterolemia is a condition that occurs when a person lacks sufficient LDL receptors for the uptake of LDL cholesterol. In this case, the person ends up having high LDL blood cholesterol levels since the cells cannot remove LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Functions of HDL
When LDL cholesterol travels through the blood, it builds up on the walls of your arteries and causes atherosclerosis which can lead to coronary heart disease and heart attacks. HDL reduces this risk of heart disease caused by LDL. Excess cholesterol in the body is bound by HDL and transported to the liver for disposal. HDL also removed LDL cholesterol from the walls of your arteries. High density lipoprotein reduces your heart disease risk in these ways.
Medical Significance
It is important to know your blood cholesterol levels as they can directly impact your health. High LDL cholesterol levels can put you at risk for coronary heart disease, strokes and heart attacks. Low levels of HDL cholesterol raises your risk of having heart disease. Knowing your cholesterol levels can motivate you to make changes in your lifestyle that will reduce your risk for heart disease.
Expert Insight
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute suggests that the main goal of cholesterol reduction is to lower your blood levels of LDL cholesterol and in the process reduce your risk for heart disease. It further states that this can be done through cholesterol lowering drugs in partnership with your doctor and through consuming a low fat, low cholesterol diet, physical activity, and weight management.
