A Reading about Cholesterol Disorders

Cholesterol is an organic chemical substance which is essential as a structural component of cell membranes and is required to maintain proper membrane permeability and fluidity. This circulates in the blood stream from which hormones are made to maintain the nerve cells. Around 75% to 80% of the cholesterol that circulates in a human body is produced by the liver. Animal sources of food are cholesterol rich and it is not found in any of the plants. Cholesterol is vital for human life; however, higher levels of the same can lead to damage of the arteries and various cardiovascular diseases.

An increase in the cholesterol level can lead to atherosclerosis. Cholesterol along with triglycerides is some of the major and important fats in the blood which helps the body absorb fat and fat-soluble vitamins. It helps to make vitamin D and other hormones such as estrogen, testosterone and cortisol. They cannot easily circulate in the blood because blood is mostly water. Triglycerides and other fats when combined with proteins and other various substances form particles called lipoproteins. More than 500,000 people suffer a heart disease due to excess rise in cholesterol levels which reduces the fluidity of the blood. The rising number of cases as such has become quite problematic and is a issue of concern. More and more people binge on fatty & junk food which leads to all various types of diseases related to the body or heart. If untreated, it can become quite fatal as times.

Cholesterol includes total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Increased levels of the same can lead to heart attack, stroke, arthrosclerosis and various other diseases which are dangerous for life. A regular test should be conducted for all above 25 yrs; it will help reduce the number of deaths which have been increasing steadily for the past few years. Obesity, no regular exercise, over-drinking of alcohol, family history, age, gender, diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney failure, Cushing’s syndrome and medications like birth control pills, beta blockers, estrogen and corticosteroids are some of the major causes to become a prey for cholesterol. Low blood cholesterol can be caused by anemia, hypothyroidism, lack of blood or malnutrition, liver diseases, genetic conditions, tangier disease and malabsorption (inability to absorb food). Under any circumstances the level should remain under 200 mg/DL (milligram per deciliter). HDL level should remain above 40 mg/DL and triglyceride levels also should be below 200 mg/DL. If the cholesterol level rises above 240 mg/DL, the risk becomes quite alarming and can prove to be fatal if not treated on time.

The treatment for cholesterol goes on for a lifetime and medicines need to be taken regularly. The change can take place only through change in lifestyle and understanding one’s own body needs and requirements. Patients should follow a healthy and disciplined diet regime which should consist of fat free foods like fruits, milk, bread, almonds, fish, eggs (if allowed) and many other healthy nutrients depending upon the condition. A healthy weight should be maintained depending upon the age and daily exercise should be done non-stop for a minimum of 30 minutes. With all precautions under action and regular daily routine, the disease will for sure be reduced to a great extent but medications continue for a lifetime. We wish everyone to live a happy and healthy life.