Cholesterol-Good And Bad Effects On Body
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| Cholesterol is found in every cell in the body and is used to build cell membranes, produce hormones, and help digest food |
Overview
Cholesterol is a type of fat molecule that is essential for many processes in the human body. It is a sterol, meaning that it is a type of steroid molecule.
Cholesterol is found in every cell in the body and is used to build cell membranes, produce hormones, and help digest food.
Types Of Cholesterol
There are two main types of cholesterol:
low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because high levels of it in the blood are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
HDL cholesterol is often called "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and may help protect against heart disease.
What Are The Normal, Good, And Bad Levels Of Cholesterol?
Normal levels of cholesterol can vary based on age, gender, and other individual factors.
However, the general guidelines for healthy cholesterol levels are:
Total cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dL
LDL cholesterol: less than 100 mg/dL
HDL cholesterol: 60 mg/dL or higher
Triglycerides: less than 150 mg/dL
Higher levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and lower levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease.
However, it is important to note that cholesterol levels are just one factor that can contribute to heart disease risk, and individual risk can vary based on other factors such as family history, blood pressure, and smoking status.
Is Cholesterol Necessary For The Body?
Yes, cholesterol is necessary for the body. While high levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of developing heart disease, cholesterol itself is an essential component of many cellular processes in the body.
Cholesterol is used to build cell membranes, which are the protective outer layer of cells.
It is also a precursor for the production of several hormones, including estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol.
Additionally, cholesterol is necessary for the production of bile acids, which help digest fats in the small intestine.
The liver produces cholesterol on its own, and it can also be obtained from certain foods, such as meat, dairy products, and eggs.
While it is important to maintain healthy levels of cholesterol, it is not necessary to completely eliminate cholesterol from the diet.
What Are The Health Risks Of High Cholesterol?
High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of developing several health problems, including:
Heart disease:
High levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the blood can cause plaque to build up in the arteries, leading to a narrowing of the blood vessels and reduced blood flow to the heart resulting in heart disease.
This can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
Peripheral artery disease:
High levels of cholesterol can also lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the limbs, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs.
Pancreatitis:
Extremely high levels of triglycerides in the blood can cause inflammation of the pancreas, a condition known as pancreatitis.
Xanthomas:
High levels of cholesterol can cause deposits of cholesterol to accumulate in tendons and other tissues, resulting in yellowish-colored bumps known as xanthomas.
Gallstones:
Cholesterol can also contribute to the formation of gallstones, which are solid masses that form in the gallbladder.
Atherosclerosis:
High levels of LDL cholesterol can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, which is a condition in which fatty deposits build up inside the arteries, causing them to become stiff and narrow.
This can reduce blood flow to the heart and brain, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Hypertension:
High levels of cholesterol can also contribute to the development of high blood pressure (hypertension), which is another risk factor for heart disease.
Metabolic syndrome:
High levels of cholesterol can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome, which is a cluster of conditions that includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD):
High levels of triglycerides in the blood can contribute to the development of NAFLD, which is a condition in which excess fat builds up in the liver.
NAFLD can lead to liver damage and may progress to more severe forms of liver disease.
Dementia:
High levels of LDL cholesterol may contribute to the development of dementia and Alzheimer's disease later in life.
What Are The Symptoms Of High Levels Of Cholesterol?
High cholesterol levels typically do not cause any symptoms, which is why it is often called a "silent" condition.
Most people do not know they have high cholesterol until they have their cholesterol levels checked as part of a routine physical exam or screening test.
However, in rare cases, very high levels of cholesterol can cause visible signs or symptoms. These may include:
Yellowish bumps on the skin:
High levels of cholesterol can lead to the formation of small, yellowish bumps on the skin, particularly around the eyes or on the elbows, knees, or hands.
These bumps are called xanthomas and are a sign of high cholesterol.
Tendinous xanthomas:
These are cholesterol deposits in tendons, especially in the Achilles tendon, which can cause pain and discomfort.
Home Remedies For High Levels Of Cholesterol:
Please see the above video for reference.
- Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood needed for the proper functioning of cells and the production of hormones.
- High cholesterol has no signs or symptoms until it reaches critical levels. So everyone should get his/her cholesterol level checked.
- There are 2 main types of cholesterol-LDL and HDL. The details are given in the article above.
- Remedy#1- boil 2 teaspoons of Coriander Powder in a cup of water. Filter and drink twice daily.
- Remedy#2- mix 1 teaspoon of Indian Gooseberry (Amla) powder in a glass of warm water and drink daily in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Remedy#3- Mix equal quantities of powders of Black Pepper, Dry Ginger, Turmeric, and Amla and store in a glass container.
- Take 1 spoon of this mixture twice daily with warm water.
- Remedy#4- Take Red Onions in a salad or mix a spoon of Onion Juice in Honey and consume daily.
- Remedy#5- Take 750 ml of Orange Juice daily. This controls all types of cholesterol levels.
- Remedy#6- Boil some Mint Leaves in a cup of water and mix to it some Honey and Pepper Powder. Drink it 2-3 times daily.
- Remedy#7- Take 2-3 Fish Oil Capsules daily. They provide Omega 3 Fatty Acids that prevent heart disease.
- Reduce these worst foods rich in cholesterol- liver, muffins, macaroni, cheese, fried chicken french fries, ice cream, red meat, egg york, butter, hamburgers.
- Work out at least 3 hours a week. Exercise lowers LDL levels and boosts HDL levels.
You can use as many of the above remedies as you want.
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Some More Home Remedies For High Cholesterol Levels:
There are some more home remedies that may help support overall heart health and lower cholesterol levels. Here are a few examples:
Lose weight:
If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help lower cholesterol levels and improve overall heart health.
Quit smoking:
Smoking can contribute to high cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease.
If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart health.
Limit alcohol intake:
Excessive alcohol consumption can raise cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease.
Limit your alcohol intake to no more than 1 drink per day for women and 2 drinks per day for men.
Try natural supplements:
Some natural supplements, such as psyllium, garlic, and fish oil, may help lower cholesterol levels.
What Are The Symptoms Of Low Cholesterol Levels?
Low cholesterol levels may not cause any symptoms, especially if they are only slightly below the normal range.
However, if your cholesterol levels are significantly low, you may experience some symptoms.
Here are some of the potential symptoms of low cholesterol:
Fatigue:
Low cholesterol levels can contribute to fatigue and a lack of energy.
Memory and cognitive problems:
Some studies have suggested that low levels of cholesterol may be associated with memory, including difficulties with concentration and memory.
Mood changes:
Low cholesterol levels may be associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Digestive problems:
Cholesterol is important for the production of bile acids, which are necessary for the digestion and absorption of fats.
Low levels of cholesterol may contribute to digestive problems, such as diarrhea, bloating, and indigestion.
Increased susceptibility to infections:
Cholesterol is important for the functioning of the immune system, so low levels of cholesterol may increase the risk of infections.
Vision problems:
Some studies have suggested that very low levels of cholesterol may be associated with an increased risk of vision problems, such as cataracts.
Harmful Effects Of Low Cholesterol
Please see the above video for reference.
- Contrary to common belief, low cholesterol is more dangerous than high cholesterol.
- Low cholesterol causes a high risk of depression and intentions to commit suicide.
- Low cholesterol causes a high risk of violent behavior and intentions to commit a crime.
- Low cholesterol can cause memory loss since it is essential for neurological functions.
- Low cholesterol can cause diseases like Alzheimer's, Dementia, Cancer, or Parkinson's.
- Cholesterol helps to produce cell membranes, hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids to help you to digest fat.
- Do not lower your cholesterol through artificial means like using statin drugs.
- High levels of HDL protect against damage to blood supply caused by the narrowing of arteries.
- You should live the right lifestyle and allow your body to have the right quantity of cholesterol.
- Exercise regularly and avoid sugar, stress, smoking and over-cooked and processed foods.
Some More Health Risks Of Low Cholesterol
Here are some of more potential health risks associated with low cholesterol:
Increased risk of infection:
Low levels of cholesterol may weaken the immune system and increase the risk of developing infections.
Increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke:
Some studies have suggested that very low levels of cholesterol may be associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke.
Nutrient deficiencies:
Cholesterol is needed for the absorption of certain nutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K. Very low levels of cholesterol may contribute to deficiencies of these nutrients.
Hormone imbalances:
Cholesterol is necessary for the production of many hormones, including estrogen and testosterone.
Very low levels of cholesterol may lead to hormone imbalances, which can cause a variety of health problems.
Increased risk of injury:
Low levels of cholesterol may make cells more susceptible to injury or damage, increasing the risk of various health problems.
It is important to note that the health risks associated with low cholesterol are not as well-established as those associated with high cholesterol.
Conclusion: You should not lower your cholesterol through artificial means like using statin drugs. You should live the right lifestyle and allow your body to have the right quantity of cholesterol.
Friends, Stay Fit, Stay Happy
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Compiled by: Paramjit Singh Rana
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