We often hear that cholesterol is bad for our health, but is that always the case? Learn why we need some cholesterol to be healthy.
Even though cholesterol gets a bad reputation, it turns out we actually need some in our bodies. Moreover, our body naturally produces it, so where do we draw the line? What makes cholesterol “good” or “bad”?
First, let’s begin by figuring out what it is and where it comes from. Cholesterol is a substance that our livers make naturally and can also be obtained through foods but not plants.
The body uses it for three main functions: producing sex hormones, assisting in bile production, and as a building block for human tissues. All of these functions depend on having cholesterol but keep in mind that there are “good” and “bad” types.
Good vs. Bad Types
There are two main types: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). Both of these are compounds made of fat and protein, but LDL is the “bad” type and HDL is “good”.
According to the American Heart Association, too much LDL leads to plaque buildup along the arterial walls. It can also lead to blood clots that can break loose and block circulation, resulting in a heart attack or stroke.
Conversely, HDL is “good” because it helps keep the cardiovascular system healthy and helps remove LDL from the arteries. Studies show that high levels of HDL can protect against heart attacks and strokes, while low levels increase the risk.
Improving Your Levels
Keeping your cholesterol levels at a healthy range means keeping track of your LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood and usually accompany high cholesterol and heart disease risk. Your total should ideally be lower than 200 mg/dL with anything above 240 mg/dL being too high.
Once you check your numbers, your doctor will determine if you need medication to help control your levels. However, there are things you can do at home to lower your levels like lowering your intake of saturated fats. Talk to your doctor about what steps you need to take to start lowering your cholesterol now.
The Outlook
Cholesterol is a natural substance made by the body to help carry out different functions. However, not all types are the same, which is why you need to minimize LDL levels and increase HDL levels.
The best way to lower your “bad” type is through a mix of aerobic exercise, strength training, and healthy dieting. Moreover, you can take daily heart supplements like L-arginine Plus to help promote your circulation, cholesterol levels, and more.
Its ingredients help increase the production of nitric oxide, a natural substance that relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow. Try L-arginine Plus along with regular exercise and healthy eating to boost your circulation and cholesterol health.