Cholesterol: What It Is and Why It Matters
Cholesterol may sound like a word to avoid but it’s a vital substance your body needs to function well. However, the story is not quite as simple as ‘good’ versus ‘bad’. Understanding cholesterol better can help you manage your health and make informed decisions about diet and lifestyle.
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of your body. Your liver produces most of the cholesterol you need but you also get some from animal-based foods. Cholesterol is essential for building cell membranes, producing certain hormones and making vitamin D. It also plays a role in digesting fatty foods.
Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream on proteins called lipoproteins. Two main types are important to know: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). LDL cholesterol is often labelled as ‘bad’ because high levels can lead to a build-up in the walls of your arteries which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. HDL cholesterol is regarded as ‘good’ because it helps transport cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it can be broken down and removed from the body.
What Should Your Cholesterol Be?
For adults, healthy cholesterol levels are generally aimed at keeping total cholesterol below 5.0 mmol/L, with LDL cholesterol below 3.0 mmol/L and HDL cholesterol above 1.0 mmol/L for men and 1.3 mmol/L for women. Triglycerides, another type of blood fat, should ideally be below 1.7 mmol/L. These are guideline figures and your doctor may recommend different targets based on your risk factors, family history or existing health conditions.
Maintaining the right balance is key: more of the protective HDL and less of the troublesome LDL supports a healthy heart and blood vessels.
How Can You Check Your Cholesterol?
Checking your cholesterol is straightforward and typically done with a blood test. This can be arranged by your GP or practice nurse and sometimes at community health events or pharmacy clinics. You may be asked not to eat for several hours before the test for the most accurate results, especially if triglycerides are being measured.
Once your results are available your healthcare provider will explain what your levels mean and whether any changes are needed. Regular checks are recommended, especially if you have risk factors such as family history, high blood pressure, diabetes or if you are over a certain age.
Why Is Cholesterol Important?
Cholesterol is an essential building block in your body. However, too much in the wrong places can lead to health problems. When LDL cholesterol is high it can stick to the walls of your arteries forming plaques that narrow or block blood flow. This process, called atherosclerosis, is a major contributor to heart attacks and strokes.
By keeping your cholesterol in healthy ranges you can help protect your heart and circulation for the long term. Diet, exercise and lifestyle choices play a major role in influencing your cholesterol levels. Eating less saturated fat and trans fat, choosing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and including healthy fats like those from nuts and fish all support better cholesterol balance. Staying active and not smoking add further protective effects.
Cholesterol and Your Overall Wellness
Keeping an eye on cholesterol is an important part of looking after your heart and blood vessels. Routine checks make it possible to spot any issues early and take action before problems develop. With a little knowledge and the support of your healthcare provider, cholesterol is something you can manage throughout your life to protect your overall health and wellbeing.