It’s a Serious Health Topic
You’ve probably heard the terms “good” and “bad” cholesterol. But what do they really mean, and why should you care? Let’s break it down.
Heart disease and stroke (Cerebrovascular disease) are the leading causes of death, killing an estimated 2,300 people every day in the US, more than any other causes.
The misconception about heart disease is that it is caused by the cholesterol that we eat in our diet. Most people still believe that eating cholesterol-rich foods causes “bad cholesterol” in our blood and builds up on our artery walls. In 1968 the American Heart Association (AHA) claimed that heart disease was caused by eating high-cholesterol foods. Dietary cholesterol, especially egg consumption up to this date still believes it contributes to heart diseases. US dietary guidelines have been promoting Americans away from consuming foods high in cholesterol for decades and nutrition labels still inform American consumers about how much cholesterol is contained in each serving of packaged foods.
Cholesterol is essential to life. It is required to produce cell membranes, hormones including testosterone, progesterone, estrogen and cortisol.
Lipoproteins: The Cholesterol Carriers
Cholesterol, while essential for certain bodily functions, can also pose a risk to your health if it builds up in your arteries. This is where lipoproteins come in. They are protein-lipid complexes that transport cholesterol and other lipids throughout your bloodstream.
LDL: The “Bad” Cholesterol
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. When there’s too much LDL in your blood, it can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. This buildup can narrow your arteries, making it harder for blood to flow. Over time, this can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
HDL: The “Good” Cholesterol
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as “good” cholesterol. It helps remove excess cholesterol from your arteries and transport it back to your liver for disposal. Having higher levels of HDL can help protect your heart.
Concerned About Your Cholesterol?
If you’re worried about your cholesterol levels, don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s work together to understand the root causes and develop a plan to manage your cholesterol effectively.