Did you know that our bodies need a small amount of cholesterol in the blood to build cell membranes, to make hormones like estrogen and testosterone, to help our metabolism function efficiently, and to produce vitamin D?
These are all functions of cholesterol that we often overlook. Cholesterol has gained a bad reputation, primarily due to its association with cardiovascular events. But what many people don't know is that there are two types of cholesterol.
According to Only My Health, we'll explore the importance of cholesterol, its causes, and how to manage it.
Good vs. Bad Cholesterol
There are five components of cholesterol: VLDL (a type of fat in the blood), LDL (low-density lipoprotein), IDL (medium-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides. A doctor explained, "HDL is considered 'good' cholesterol, while the rest are considered 'bad' cholesterol."
This is because high-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps transport cholesterol to the liver, where it can be removed from the bloodstream before it accumulates in the arteries. In contrast, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and other forms of "bad" cholesterol carry cholesterol directly into the arteries.
Causes of "Bad" Cholesterol Accumulation in the Body
The accumulation of "bad" cholesterol is mostly linked to lifestyle issues such as obesity, lack of exercise, and excessive consumption of unhealthy foods. These factors can be managed through lifestyle changes. However, in cases where the risk factor is high, medication may be necessary.
Hyperlipidemia, or cholesterol-related metabolic disorders, can be inherited, a condition known as familial dyslipidemia. Such disorders often require medication and advanced techniques like plasmapheresis for management.
How to Measure Cholesterol
The report recommends three methods for measuring cholesterol:
The most common method is to measure the five components: VLDL, LDL, IDL, HDL, and triglycerides. HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, is considered "good" cholesterol, while the others are considered "bad" cholesterol.
Another method is calculating non-HDL cholesterol, which involves subtracting HDL from total cholesterol. The remaining value, measured in milligrams per DL, represents non-HDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol.
A third method is measuring lipoprotein levels, specifically lipoprotein B and lipoprotein A. The ratio of lipoprotein B (representing "bad" cholesterol) to lipoprotein A (representing "good" cholesterol) can be used as a marker of good versus bad cholesterol. A ratio below 0.9 is recommended.
Guide to Cholesterol Management
Here's a look at the approaches doctors recommend for cholesterol management:
A patient risk assessment is the first step in cholesterol management, which includes calculating the 10-year risk of coronary artery events. If the risk is greater than 7.5%, cholesterol-lowering medications are recommended for most patients.
For individuals with diabetes, peripheral coronary artery disease, or a high risk of atherosclerosis, as indicated by LDL levels above 70, statins are also recommended.
Regardless of the risk factor, lifestyle plays a significant role in managing familial and acquired causes of high cholesterol. This includes exercising daily for at least 30 to 45 minutes, five days a week, and adopting healthy eating habits. These habits include reducing sugar and carbohydrate intake, increasing protein intake, consuming good sources of polyunsaturated fats, and incorporating nuts into your diet.
High cholesterol can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits in the blood, eventually making it difficult for sufficient blood to flow through the arteries.
These deposits can suddenly rupture or form a clot, leading to a heart attack or stroke. Be sure to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly and maintain a healthy diet. In addition, regular exercise is key.