What exactly is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a wax-like substance released by the liver and it contributes towards the production of cell membranes, hormones, vitamin D and bile acids used in digestion. Since cholesterol is a fatty substance, it is not dissolved in your blood and hence, binds together to convert into lipoprotein that travels in the bloodstream.
Cholesterol is classified into LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). HDL is the useful variety of cholesterol that comes back to the liver. Excessive LDL is harmful since it is retained in the bloodstream and has a tendency of sticking to the artery walls. Normally, your total cholesterol level should not exceed 200 milligrams per deciliter of blood.
Causes for high cholesterol
If you are running at 230 mg/dL of cholesterol, you are in high risk of getting clogged arteries that multiply the chances of a stroke or heart attack. The cholesterol level shoots up owning to a number of factors. It could be genetic. But usually it comes from too much saturated fat from food items like eggs, milk, pork, fries etc.
How to lower your cholesterol level?
The best way to get rid of cholesterol is to cut out fatty foods from your diet and exercise regularly. Just by staying physically active and indulging in household chores like walking, gardening and moping, you could keep your cholesterol level normal. Indulge in some adventure sports like biking, jogging, playing hockey, tennis, basketball and soccer is equally good.
Include lean proteins rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like fish, skinned meat and poultry, dry beans, dry peas, low fat and skimmed milk in your daily diet. Do not forget to take loads of whole grains, green vegetables, fresh fruits, salads and liquids. Avoid nuts, barley, beans and the psyllium husk. Remember, a healthy diet ensures a healthy heart!
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