What is cholesterol?
All of us have come across the term cholesterol. Most often, the older adults frequently use the term cholesterol. It is also attributed as one of the risk factors for many heart related diseases. Cholesterol is a compound present only in animals. It is a C 27 compound containing cyclopentano perhydrophenanthrene ring.
Cholesterol is a constituent of cell membranes. Cholesterol is present in large amounts in nerves and functions as an insulating cover for transmission of electrical impulses. it serves as an precursor for biologically important compounds- bile salts, steroid hormones and vitamin D. abnormality in cholesterol metabolism is seen in atherosclerosis- thickening of arteries, which causes myocardial infarction and stroke.
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Body’s total cholesterol is derived from biosynthesis and diet (especially animal diet). Cholesterol is produced by virtually all tissues in humans. Pathway, however, is most active in liver and to some extent also in intestine, adrenal cortex, ovaries, testis, placenta, etc. synthesis of cholesterol occurs in cytoplasm and endoplasmic reticulum. Insulin hormone activates cholesterol synthesis and glucagon hormone inhibits cholesterol synthesis.
Cholesterol cannot be degraded in humans. Most of the cholesterol and bile acids that are secreted into bile are reabsorbed in the intestine and secreted again by liver into bile. Cholesterol in the intestine is acted upon by the bacteria to form coprostanol, which is excreted in faeces. It is excreted from the body via bile and then via faeces. In addition, some cholesterol is converted to other biologically important compounds like vitamin D and steroid hormones.
Normal plasma cholesterol levels
Total cholesterol: 150-200 mg%;
LDL cholesterol: up to 150 mg%;
HDL cholesterol, Male: 30-60 mg%; Female: 30-75 mg%
Since, LDL supplies cholesterol to tissues, LDL is considered as ‘bad cholesterol’ and since HDL scavenges cholesterol from tissues, HDL- cholesterol is considered as ‘good cholesterol’.
Factors affecting Plasma Cholesterol Level
· Diet: saturated fat and a high calorie diet are hypercholesterolemic.
· Lifestyle: smoking, sedentary lifestyle, stress, coffee, etc. predispose to hypercholesterolemia.
· Diseases: increased cholesterol is found in diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, obstructive jaundice and in type 1, 2, and type 3 hyperlipoproteinemias.
Effects of increased cholesterol:
Increased cholesterol results in Atherosclerosis. It is a narrowing of the arterial lumen due to thickening of the arterial wall which in turn, is due to deposition of cholesterol in the arterial walls as ‘plaques’. Narrowing of artery in atherosclerosis may lead to formation of thrombus blocking blood supply and consequent stoppage of oxygen supply (ischemia), which in turn, causes tissue necrosis (infarction). Blocking of coronary artery causes myocardial infarction (MI) and that of cerebral artery causes stroke, both of which are life threatening.
Measures to control cholesterol levels:
Consumption of heart-healthy diet:
· Reduction of saturated fats: it is present is red meat, and full fat dairy products. The reduced intake of saturated fats lower the level of low density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol.
· Avoid trans-fat: it is found mainly in oil which is used continuously for frying fritters and other delicacies, cakes, snacks, crackers, and store bought cookies. Also found in margarines. It is generally known as partially hydrogenated vegetable oil.
· Omega 3 fatty acids: diet rich in omega 3 fatty acids found in cod liver oil doesn’t affect the LDL levels, however, contribute healthy benefits to the heart. It also reduces blood pressure. Flax seeds, salmon, mackerel, and walnuts are few sources.
· Include whey protein and soluble fibre in a diet: soluble fibre interferes cholesterol absorption by the intestines, whereas, whey proteins reduce the level of LDL and total cholesterol levels.
Physical activity:
Exercise is very beneficial to keep the cholesterol level in check. A brisk walk of 30 minutes or aerobic exercise of 20 minutes, five days per week will help to reduce cholesterol levels and promote HDL cholesterol. Engaging in sport is one of the option.
Quit smoking: smoking is one of the cause for increased cholesterol level. Quitting these habits brings down your blood pressure and improves circulation. It also promotes HDL cholesterol.
Lose weight: obesity is the evil cause of many diseases. Opting stairs instead of elevator, gardening, and avoidance of beverages are some measures to control obesity.
Reduce alcohol: alcohol in high quantity impairs health to the greater extent.
If your doctor prescribes drugs like statins to control the cholesterol level, buy prescription drugs online from 3MEDS. Statins include atorvastatin, lovastatin, fluvastatin, etc.
Conclusion:
Cholesterol is a normal constituent of the body. However, increased levels are known to cause heart related diseases, and therefore, it is essential to keep your cholesterol in check. Promote high-density lipoprotein i.e. good cholesterol through various health and lifestyle modifications. Keep regular visit to your doctor and get your blood profile done.