Cholesterol levels (CHO) is carried around in the bloodstream by one of three carrier molecules, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL). The ideal cholesterol ratio is one where the amount of HDL-CHO in the bloodstream is higher than that of LDL-CHO.
Cholesterol ratio is in the steroid family of organic molecules. Synthesized in the liver, it consists of four hydrocarbon rings and an alcohol group. It gives stability to cellular membranes, without which we would all fall apart. It forms the raw material for the body to manufacture various steroid hormones, which control the activity of various genes within the cell nucleus. Its third function is to insulate neuronal fibers and accelerates transmission of nerve signals.
There are several ways of expressing the CHO ratio. One way is compare the level of HDL with the amount of LDL and express them as a fraction, either LDL:HDL or HDL:LDL. Another method is to calculate the total CHO. This is the cheapest method and takes into account levels of HDL, LDL and another lipid, very low density lipid or VLDL. However, LDL:HDL expresses the bad:good cholesterol ratio and is a better indicator of heart disease. The introduction of ultracentrifuge technology in the 1970s made these measurements possible.
Whichever way it is expressed, too high a cholesterol level can lead to a myriad of health problems. High levels can result in fatty deposits, called atheroma, to adhere to the inner lining of the arteries, resulting in possible blockage. Another name for this is atherosclerosis. Over a period of years, it can build up to dangerous levels and interfere with smooth blood flow through the arteries.
Atherosclerosis can ultimately cause diseases of the heart such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) or angina. Outside the heart, peripheral vascular disease (PVD) may occur. In the brain, atheroma can cause a stroke or formation of blood clots called thrombi.
Regular exercise, eating a healthy diet and maintaining an optimum weight can all help to maintain the correct level and reduce the chances of a cardiac, cerebrovascular event or PVD. Controlling blood pressure and not smoking also help to avoid the problems associated with atheroma.
Maintaining a healthy cholesterol ratio is the key to avoiding problems with the heart and blood circulation systems. Avoiding fatty foods is one way of achieving this. Individuals from families with a history of cardiovascular disease or high cholesterol need to work that much harder to keep this under control.
Cholesterol ratio is in the steroid family of organic molecules. Synthesized in the liver, it consists of four hydrocarbon rings and an alcohol group. It gives stability to cellular membranes, without which we would all fall apart. It forms the raw material for the body to manufacture various steroid hormones, which control the activity of various genes within the cell nucleus. Its third function is to insulate neuronal fibers and accelerates transmission of nerve signals.
There are several ways of expressing the CHO ratio. One way is compare the level of HDL with the amount of LDL and express them as a fraction, either LDL:HDL or HDL:LDL. Another method is to calculate the total CHO. This is the cheapest method and takes into account levels of HDL, LDL and another lipid, very low density lipid or VLDL. However, LDL:HDL expresses the bad:good cholesterol ratio and is a better indicator of heart disease. The introduction of ultracentrifuge technology in the 1970s made these measurements possible.
Whichever way it is expressed, too high a cholesterol level can lead to a myriad of health problems. High levels can result in fatty deposits, called atheroma, to adhere to the inner lining of the arteries, resulting in possible blockage. Another name for this is atherosclerosis. Over a period of years, it can build up to dangerous levels and interfere with smooth blood flow through the arteries.
Atherosclerosis can ultimately cause diseases of the heart such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) or angina. Outside the heart, peripheral vascular disease (PVD) may occur. In the brain, atheroma can cause a stroke or formation of blood clots called thrombi.
Regular exercise, eating a healthy diet and maintaining an optimum weight can all help to maintain the correct level and reduce the chances of a cardiac, cerebrovascular event or PVD. Controlling blood pressure and not smoking also help to avoid the problems associated with atheroma.
Maintaining a healthy cholesterol ratio is the key to avoiding problems with the heart and blood circulation systems. Avoiding fatty foods is one way of achieving this. Individuals from families with a history of cardiovascular disease or high cholesterol need to work that much harder to keep this under control.
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