Cholesterol is chemical compound that is naturally produced in the body as a combination of fats and steroids (http://bit.ly/gCjLlx). It is needed to help produce components to hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Our diet and the liver organ are the central sources for producing cholesterol for the body. Cholesterol from diets consist of organ meats such as fish and poultry. The liver produces about 80% of cholesterol and our eating of foods produce the remaining portion (http://bit.ly/gCjLlx). When we consume too much saturated fats and cholesterol from foods, we risk raising our bad cholesterol or LDL (low density lipoprotein) in our blood. Low density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol causes plaque build up in the arteries which leads to heart disease and other health deficiencies. Conversely, if we raise our good cholesterol by not consuming high saturated fats or high concentrations of cholesterol, get good exercise, and reduce weight, our good cholesterol HDL will be higher. The good cholesterol helps to removes the bad cholesterol and fat from the arterial walls, thus passing through the liver and out of the body. The liver's job is to detoxify the body. Additionally, it also plays a huge role in metabolism along with other funcions such as digestion.High cholesterol is a catalyst to strokes, heart attacks, and PAD (Peripheral Artery Disease).
Lowering cholesterol is done through a lifestyle change and not just mere dieting. Stress management and rest are integral parts of actively lowering cholesterol. Changing what one is consuming and exercising is the first rule of thumb. Plenty of dark green leafy vegetables, fruits with antioxidants in them, and fresh water will prove beneficial for weight loss and lowering LDL. Medications are prescrbed when lowering cholesterol by natural means seems to not work. Cleansing the system of toxins and replenishing with proper nutritional balance adds to lowering cholesterol. "Lowering LDL cholesterol is currently one of the primary public health initiatives preventing atherosclerosis (fatty subtances forming a deposit of plaque on the inner lining walls of the arteries) and heart attacks" (http://www.medicinenet.com/cholesterol/page2.htm). What are "normal"cholesterol levels? Studies show that there are no real numbers that determine a "normal" level of cholesterol, however, doctors consider safe levels to be under the 200 mark. HDL (high density lipoprotein) or the "good" cholesterol has been higher in people who are lean, exercise regularly, and do not smoke. We are in a global health crisis. Obesity is on the forefront of American health issues. Becoming proactive with one's health is a choice. If you do not know your levels for both LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol), schedule an appointment with your family physician for a blood test. It could save your life.
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