Definition of cholesterol

Cholesterol helps the body produce vitamin D, a number of hormones, and bile acids to digest fat. Cholesterol in the proper level is actually needed by the body to help build new cells so that the body can continue to function normally. Apart from that, cholesterol is also needed for the process of digestion, hormone production, and forming vitamin D. If cholesterol levels are too high, then it is dangerous for the body because it will cause various diseases and complications.

In the blood, cholesterol is carried by protein. Combined both are called lipoproteins. The two main types of lipoprotein are low density lipoprotein (LDL) which is commonly called bad cholesterol and high density lipoprotein (HDL) which is commonly called good cholesterol.

The task of LDL is to transport cholesterol from the liver to cells in need. But if the amount of cholesterol exceeds the need, it can settle to the walls of the arteries and cause disease. Meanwhile, HDL is tasked with transporting cholesterol back into the liver , as opposed to LDL. In the liver, cholesterol will be destroyed or excreted by the body through feces or impurities.

Cholesterol levels in the blood recommended for each person varies. Depending on each person has a higher or lower risk to be affected by arterial disease. Meanwhile, checks related to the level or amount of cholesterol in the blood can be measured by going through a blood test.

Examination of cholesterol levels in the blood should be done if you experience symptoms of being overweight, high blood pressure, have diabetes, or have other illnesses that might increase cholesterol levels.

If there are close relatives who suffer from diseases caused by cholesterol, or there are close relatives who have a cardiovascular history at an early age, then a diagnosis of cholesterol levels is highly recommended.

For those who have been diagnosed with coronary heart disease , mild stroke, or peripheral arterial disease, this examination is also recommended.

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Definition of cholesterol

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