Tit Bits From The World of Cholesterol

There are several reasons why the levels of blood cholesterol are elevated. One major reason is the decreased activity of the thyroid. Hypothyroidism affects women more than men, and women are more prone to blood cholesterol levels because of this. Health officials have suggested that the children of school age with a family history of high cholesterol levels should be screened regularly for cholesterol abnormalities.

LDL cholesterol has always been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. LDL particles are of different sizes. Reports suggest that large LDL particles are relatively less dangerous than small LDL particles. LDL cholesterol by itself is not bad. It is the oxidized form of LDL cholesterol that is dangerous. The oxidation of LDL cholesterol is prevented by including enough antioxidants in your diet. These are mainly obtained from fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables supply not only antioxidants, but also fiber. Fiber also lowers the blood cholesterol.

The red grapes have the ability to lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure. It has been suggested that the combination of antioxidants and fiber may be responsible for achieving this goal. The red grapes also decrease the LDL cholesterol and at the same time, increase the HDL cholesterol. In addition, The anthocyanins present in the red grapes increase the synthesis of endothelial nitric oxide. This compound has the function of relaxing the blood vessels. This act results in smoother blood flow. This also prevents the increase in the blood pressure. Hypertension is one of the factors predisposing to heart attacks. The red grapes also prevent the formation of inflammatory substances such as C-reactive protein capable of damaging the arteries.

Exercise has many benefits. It helps to stay physically fit. This prevents weight increase and the onset of many diseases. Exercise also stimulates the functioning of the immune system. Now comes an interesting and positive news is that exercise increases levels of HDL that transports the good cholesterol. This means that regular exercise helps to flush out the cholesterol with the help of the liver. HDL, by itself, is capable of boosting the immune capacity of the body and is also a capable antioxidant. Thus, exercise, indirectly increases the antioxidant capacity of the body.

High cholesterol is not the privilege of the rich. It was reported that levels of blood cholesterol are rising worldwide, regardless of the country’s economic situation. Another interesting puzzle is that hardly anybody has heard of cholesterol blocking the veins. What is special about the arteries which makes the cholesterol to stick to them? This is a big mystery.