HDL Cholesterol

Answer 1

HDL is defined as, High Density Lipoprotein. There are five major groups of Lipoproteins flowing in the blood stream, and HDL cholesterol is the smallest of these lipoproteins. Eventhough HDL is small; it is responsible for carrying approximately thirty percent of the cholesterol in the blood stream. Sometimes referred to 'good' cholesterol, this particle is very dense because it contains high concentrations of protein, and grows in size as it accumulates other forms of cholesterol. Its job in the body is to transport LDL (the 'bad' cholesterol) to the liver, where it is excreted into bile, and eventually makes its way into the intestines. The other path that it can take is to supply cholesterol to Steroidogenesis organs where it is converted into steroids, like sex hormones.

Some Cholesterol Basics

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that can attach itself to artery walls and reduce blood flow. This happens if there is an abundance of LDL, and small amounts of HDL in the blood stream. Some people believe that a low fat diet guarantees arteries that are free from plaque buildup, but that is not so. Cholesterol is produced by the body because it is used in hormone production, and is a part of every cell. In fact, without cholesterol, the human body would not be able to function. Moreover, the only methods of cholesterol control a person has, is diet and exercise.

Foods that Effect HDL

Some foods have the effect of lowering cholesterol, and these foods contain Omega-6 fatty acids. However, they decrease both LDL and HDL, which is not desirable. While foods from this group will assist in maintain healthy total cholesterol, eating foods that raise HDL will have more of a beneficial effect. Foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids have the effect of raising HDL. Some of these foods are; flax seeds and oil, fatty deep water fish like Salmon and Mackerel, walnuts, and avocados.

Exercise and HDL

Aerobic exercise has a positive effect on HDL, and should be a lifestyle choice one follows permanently. Aerobic exercise tends to reduce LDL while increasing HDL.

In the end, by paying attention to the foods one eats, there is no need to cut fat completely from the diet. Indeed, healthy fats do more for the body than effect cholesterol. Additionally, participating in regular exercise cannot only have a positive effect on cholesterol, but on your total health as well.

Answer 2

what do LDL do