Cholesterol is mainly of two types: high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LPL). The first is good cholesterol while the second is the bad cholesterol. Cholesterol plays a big role in the daily functioning of our bodies. This is mainly because it has been known to help make cell membranes. It is also a major composition of the hormones such as estrogen. Production of cholesterol for use in the body occurs in the liver. However, a large percentage of this cholesterol is consumed in people’s diets. Both HDL and LDL are Lipoproteins with a slight difference in structure. In every other essence, they are the same only that the apolipoprotein that consist in either are slightly different. HDL functions to move cholesterol from the blood system while LDL takes it back to the cardiovascular system.
As mentioned earlier, HDL is good cholesterol. HDL functions to protect the cardiovascular system in our bodies. It does this by facilitating the removal of other cholesterol particles that may be on the walls of the blood system. Then, they will help transport these particles to the liver for the production of bile. If an individual lacks HDL, there is a tendency of there being a high rate of heart attack to be expected. Some common foods that have good levels of HDL include butter.
LDL takes the newly formed cholesterol from the liver to the blood system. This will in turn cause a buildup of the cholesterol in the blood system that will cause the individual to have narrow arteries. This may lead to cardiovascular disease. Foods rich in LDL include fries and hardened manufactured fats.
I have a higher HDL ration in my diet compared to the LDL. This is due to sensitization and knowledge on the topic. A diet with higher LDL and a lower HDL will result in high cholesterol in our blood system. This in turn results in the increase in chances that the heart disease may affect an individual.
Works Cited:
"Good vs. Bad Cholesterol." www.heart.org. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2012.
"Foods to Avoid or Limit for Better Health." Nutrition, Health & Heart Disease; Cause & Prevention. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2012.
