You may have heard about some forms of cholesterol, or even undergone tests to see if it’s “good” or “bad.” What many don’t realize is that, despite its bad reputation, the body needs it for proper functioning.
As you read the above information, you must be wondering: how can it be beneficial and harmful at the same time? The reality is that every type of cholesterol has functions in the body, and its level reflects a positive (or negative) correlation with health.
To know the answer to this question, refer to the following types of cholesterol, their functions in your health, and how to maintain your levels balanced.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a vital fat that enables the body to work properly, and it serves various critical functions. It occurs in every cell and is needed to:
Create hormones, e.g., steroids.
Make bile, which is needed to digest and absorb fats.
Build cell membranes so cells can communicate with one another.
In addition, the substance is a precursor to vitamin D, which is also crucial in calcium absorption as well as in bone maintenance. In the nervous system, it is critical for normal functioning of the brain.
While it is a must-have in the body, when cholesterol becomes imbalanced, it can become public enemy number one of heart health , significantly enhancing the risk of issues, the most concerning being myocardial infarction.
How is cholesterol made by the body?
Approximately 70% of body cholesterol is produced by the liver . This production is done out of fats and other nutrients, where the organ transforms these into cholesterol.
This in-house production is controlled to provide the amount needed by the body, that is, enough cholesterol for homeostasis. After production, it is carried in the blood via lipoproteins, which transport it to cells requiring it.
How does one get cholesterol from food?
Although the majority of cholesterol is made by the body, diet also plays a role in its levels . Red meat, eggs, and milk contain the substance, which is consumed from food and carried by the blood to cells.
But overconsumption of saturated and trans fats food can result in high levels of bad cholesterol in the blood and give rise to the risk of cardiovascular disease.
However, certain sources of fat, including omega-3 fish, avocados, and vegetable oils, can help raise levels of good cholesterol. So, enjoying a balanced diet is the key to good health!
What are the different types of cholesterol?
There are various types of cholesterol in the blood with their own features and varying effects on the body. Moreover, the quantities of these types of cholesterol play an important role in heart health.
Below, see the different forms of cholesterol and how each functions in the body:
HDL
Also referred to as “good cholesterol” , HDL – High Density Lipoprotein – is the one that carries the fat out of the arteries and into the liver for processing and excretion from the body.
That is, the higher the reading in the blood, the better the health of the cardiovascular system!
Diets high in healthy fats, including those in fish, nuts, and olive oil, may increase the levels of this form of cholesterol.
LDL
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) is the notorious “bad cholesterol.” When in excess, it can build up in the walls of arteries, creating plaques that constrict and harden the vessels.
Increased levels of this form of cholesterol are directly linked to a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
A diet with high levels of saturated and trans fats, present in processed, ultra-processed and fried foods , may raise blood LDL levels.
VLDL
For VLDL – Very Low Density Lipoprotein – a translation of very low density lipoprotein, it is in charge of carrying triglycerides.
When in high levels, the risk of cardiovascular disease rises, as does LDL cholesterol. That is, it can also be “bad” if it’s in excess.
IDL
Lastly, IDL ( Intermediate Density Lipoprotein ) is derived from VLDL after certain of the triglycerides are extracted . It carries cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and can be made into LDL.
Even though it is one of the lesser-known forms of cholesterol, elevated levels of it can also damage cardiovascular health!
And how to regulate cholesterol if it is elevated?
One of the primary methods for preventing severe complications is maintaining balanced cholesterol. Lifestyle changes are key to managing the condition in those who already have high levels.
The secret to overall good health lies in adequately controlling all forms of cholesterol. This involves not only controlling what is eaten but also practicing healthy living to prevent the buildup of dangerous fat.
The initial step is always to consult a healthcare expert, who will suggest the optimum solution for your situation. Also, it’s crucial to maintain a regular exercise to enhance blood flow.
Other successful strategies are:
- Break away from an inactive lifestyle .
- Quit smoking.
- Maintain a balanced diet.
- Take in more healthy fats .
- Lessen the excess use of alcohol.
- Get sufficient sleep and maintain a proper sleeping routine.
- Take in foods rich in fiber .
- Get regular check-ups to check your cholesterol levels.
While the process takes patience and dedication, the reward is enormous: a healthy heart, more vitality in everyday life, and a substantially better quality of life. Small changes can mean a healthier and more well-being life!
