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Cholesterol Side Effects

Cholesterol is comprised of high and low density lipids (fats) in the bloodstream. These fats are transported by special proteins in the blood. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), while both cholesterol molecules, behave differently inside the body and each has its own effect on health.

  1. Where Cholesterol Comes From

    • The body makes its own cholesterol. The body of the average adult makes approximately 1,000 mg of cholesterol each day. Cholesterol is also taken in through the diet.

    LDL Cholesterol

    • LDL or "bad cholesterol" moves from the liver and into the bloodstream where it attaches itself to the arterial walls as a soft waxy plaque. Our bodies make a little LDL, but the majority of LDL is taken in through the diet.

    Effects Of LDL

    • High levels of LDL cholesterol lead to artheriosclerosis, a hardening of the arteries caused by plaque deposits. Artheriosclerosis is the beginning of coronary artery disease that can lead to heart attack and stroke.

    HDL Benefits

    • HDL cholesterol removes LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it to the liver where it is metabolized and removed from the body. HDL cholesterol is manufactured by our bodies, and production of HDL is boosted by a healthy diet and physical activity.

    Additional Sources Of HDL

    • HDL is found in healthy oils such as olive and conola oils. Foods that contain omega-3 acids are also a good source of HDL cholesterol.

    Warning Signs

    • The full range of negative effects from high cholesterol often do not become apparent until significant damage has been done by the buildup of plaque on the arterial walls. Potentially life-threatening effects include angina (chest pain), aneurysm (ruptured blood vessel) and heart attack.

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