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Diet, Lifestyle and Heart Disease - Cholesterol

Diet, Lifestyle and Heart Disease - Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a naturally occurring waxing fatty substance, which is required for many essential functions including the production of hormones, Vitamin D and bile. It is synthesized in the body and is also obtained from dietary sources. Cholesterol is present in foods of animal origin and a diet rich in such food increases the amount of cholesterol present in the body and is one of the main factors affecting atherosclerosis (fat deposits narrowing the flow of oxygen in the arteries).

Cholesterol is insoluble in blood and hence is transported with lipoproteins. There are two types of cholesterol-

  • The “good” cholesterol, which is called High Density Lipoprotein (HDL).
  • The “bad” cholesterol, which is called Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL).

It is important to know the levels of good and bad types and the difference between them. Too much of one type or too little of the other type can put you at risk for coronary heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

Total Blood or Serum Cholesterol Level Risk Factor
Below 200 mg/dL Desirable
200-239 mg/dL Borderline-High Risk
240mg/dL and over High Risk
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LDL Cholesterol Levels Risk Factor
Less than 100 mg/dL Optimal
100-129 mg/dL/dL Near Optimal/Above Optimal
130-159 mg/dL Borderline High
160-189 mg/dL High
190 mg/dL and above Very High
Gender HDL Level Risk Factor
Men <40mg/dL High Risk
40–50mg/dL Desirable
60mg Some protection from coronary heart disease
Women < 50mg/dL High Risk
50-60mg/dL Desirable
60mg/dL Some protection from coronary heart disease

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