Why You Need Normal LDL Cholesterol

It is wrong to think of cholesterol as something that is automatically bad. Even those who know something about LDL and HDL cholesterol should not automatically conclude that LDL is all bad. Humans also need normal LDL cholesterol levels.

Use of Cholesterol

Some people may not know that humans get cholesterol not just from food but from the liver as well. The liver produces cholesterol because the body has some natural use for it. Cholesterol units are used by the cells of the body as waterproof gear. Since cholesterol is insoluble in both water and blood, it fits its role perfectly as a waterproof shield. Normal function of cells, especially nerve cells benefit from this cholesterol function since cells need to be able to manage themselves without being bothered by whatever else is going on in the body.

Normal LDL Cholesterol

Under normal circumstances, low density lipoproteins (LDL) bring cholesterol to the different cells in the body that need it. Normal LDL cholesterol levels are therefore important. Above normal LDL cholesterol levels however are cause for alarm. LDL cholesterol can combine with other substances to form plaque that can thicken and harden in arteries. When these hardened arteries burst, heart attack may result.

Normally the body has a mechanism for ensuring normal LDL cholesterol levels. The body does this by sending high density lipoproteins (HDL) to work. HDL transports some cholesterol back to the liver for disposal. Normal LDL cholesterol levels combined with normal HDL levels usually keep hearts and arteries healthy.

Best Way to Lower LDL

The body would function well if left on its own but some habits cause people to have above normal LDL cholesterol levels. Smoking, over eating, consuming trans fats and many other factors may lead to above normal LDL cholesterol which increase the risk of heart disease.

In people who have a very high risk level of heart disease, doctors may prescribe medication to help achieve normal LDL cholesterol levels. All individuals however regardless of risk level are encouraged to take the natural path to LDL cholesterol reduction. So far, exercise and proper diet are the best ways to keep cholesterol levels normal.

CRP

Sometimes even people with normal LDL cholesterol levels still suffer from heart attack. Some individuals may therefore require more than just the typical cholesterol screening to determine the risk of heart disease. A c-reactive protein (CRP) test is often seen as a better determinant of heart attack risk. When arteries are inflamed, the liver releases proteins in response. Measuring the amount of protein released may be able to determine the risk of heart attack.

Screening Plan

If you and your doctor have reason to believe in an increased risk of heart disease, you should consider undergoing a cholesterol level test first. Your doctor will be able to assess your LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglyceride through a typical blood test. If the results tell you are fine but you still suspect a risk of heart disease, ask your doctor about undergoing a CRP test.