Healthy Cholesterol Levels

The past 20 years have brought our knowledge and awareness on healthy cholesterol levels and how it impacts our health to new levels.  Types of cholesterol, its differences in different body types and ages, use of cholesterol lowering medication, and overall health and heart disease preventative care have improved dramatically in our pursuit to identify how healthy cholesterol levels and improve health, prevent disease, and promote longevity.

Cholesterol is a lipid found in the body of animals, forming their outer lining of cells. There are two kinds of cholesterol found in the human body, the LDL cholesterol and the HDL cholesterol. Higher LDL cholesterol level increases the risk of coronary heart disease. It is called the “bad” cholesterol. Healthy or “good’ cholesterol, is also found in the body. HDL is the healthy form of cholesterol that extracts cholesterol from the artery walls and disposes them through liver maintaining a healthy cholesterol level. To make up healthy cholesterol level it is essential to have a balance between the two.

Liver plays an important role in secreting LDL cholesterol as well as removing them. To maintain a healthy cholesterol level it is essential to have a rapid removal of LDL cholesterol from the blood. The liver surface has active LDL receptors that help to remove LDL cholesterol. Malfunctioning of LDL receptors increases concentration of LDL cholesterol and thereby enhances the risk of coronary heart disease. Proper diet and heredity factor play a significant role in determining cholesterol level of an individual.

Diets that contain high saturated fats increase the level of LDL cholesterol in blood. It is essential to keep consumption of saturated fat under check to ensure a healthy cholesterol level. Low-level of LDL cholesterol also benefits the cerebral and carotid arteries. Thus, by maintaining a healthy cholesterol level, you can considerably prevent the onslaught of atherosclerosis and enjoy a healthy heart and consequently a healthy life.

Overall, most individuals want to maintain an overall healthy cholesterol level of less than 200mg/dl.  Regular exercise and sensible diets are key to many maintaining desirable levels of cholesterol - for more information on reputable diet providers or health programs that promote nutritional balance, online health plans from eDiets and South Beach Diet are excellent choices - as is the Eating for Life program and diet plans specifically designed for your particular Blood type diet.