Good Cholesterol, Bad Cholesterol

Our body needs cholesterol in order to perform its functions. Cholesterol - a whitish, waxy substance - has essential functions and among them are: being an important component of cell membranes, providing myelin sheath to nerve fibers, production of steroid hormones, production of bile acids and synthesis of vitamin D. About eighty percent of our cholesterol is produced naturally by the liver; about twenty percent comes from the dietary intake. However, too much of cholesterol - whether produced by the body or from the diet - is also harmful.

Excess cholesterol, over time, builds plaques inside the arteries (condition is known as atherosclerosis). This build-up narrows the lumen of the blood vessels, hence, decreases blood flow. Further, rupturing of plaques leads to clot formation which blocks the arteries. The decreased blood flow to the heart increases the risk of heart attack, while the decreased blood flow to the brain increases the risk of stroke. Hypercholesterolemia (increased cholesterol in the blood) may not show symptoms, therefore it helps to have regular lipid profile check.

Risk factors for high cholesterol are : men ages 45 and up, women ages 55 and up, obesity and inactivity, diabetes, and family history.

A lipid profile examines the level of total cholesterol, LDL (low-density-lipoprotein) cholesterol or "bad" cholesterol, HDL (high-density-lipoprotein) cholesterol or "good" cholesterol, and triglycerides (blood fats). Target normal values are: below 200 mg/dL for total cholesterol; below 100 mg/dL for low-density-lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol ("bad cholesterol"); not less than 40 mg/dL for high-density-lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol ("good cholesterol"); and below 150 mg/dL for triglycerides. Total cholesterol/HDL ratio of 3.5 or below is considered ideal.

For individuals with very high risk of heart disease, an LDL level below 70 mg/dL should be aimed.

The Good Cholesterol