Ailments and Situations - High Cholesterol

 
Description

Cholesterol is a naturally occurring fat, or lipid, that is necessary for overall body function. Approximately 1,000mg of cholesterol is produced daily by the liver and additional cholesterol is obtained from animal foods.

Cholesterol helps build cell membranes, synthesizes various sex hormones, promotes bile synthesis for digestion, and is essential for transporting fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K through the body. This steroid molecule does not dissolve in blood and is transported throughout the body by several proteins.

Once cholesterol is manufactured, it is difficult for your body to remove and must be excreted through stool. Problems occur when cholesterol accumulates on blood vessel walls, which can eventually interfere with blood flow and potentially cause a heart attack or stroke.

 

Prev - Next >>