Notes on Cholesterol and Fats, Part 1

Cholesterol is a white, waxy substance produced mainly by our liver. It is also found in animal food products. Plant foods have no cholesterol.
Cholesterol is essential to life. It is a structural part of every body cell wall and is the building block for Vitamin D, sex hormones, and bile acids which help in the digestion of dietary fats.
The body makes sufficient cholesterol for its needs and does not rely on cholesterol in the diet. Dietary fats have a major influence on blood cholesterol levels - more so than dietary cholesterol.
A high blood cholesterol level increases the risk of atherosclerosis - the thickening of arteries that can reduce or block blood flow to the heart. brain, eyes, kidneys, sex organs and other body parts.
This in turn increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney failure, impotence, and other blood circulatory problems.
Other risk factors which increase the risk of atherosclerosis include high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and uncontrolled diabetes.

Heart Attack Warning Signals

Many victims die before reaching the hospital by ignoring warning signals and delaying medical help.
Symptoms vary and commonly include:
Chest pain, vice-like squeezing or burning sensation in the center of the chest, or between the shoulder blades or in the middle of the back. Pain may even feel like severe indigestion.
Pain may be felt in the arms, shoulders, neck or jaw.
Shortness of breath often occurs with or before chest discomfort.
Other signs, with or without pain, include a cold sweat, nausea, or light-headedness.
Should you experience any of these signs, call for medical help immediately. Time if of the essence. Call 9-1-1 or your medical emergency number.

Blood Cholesterol

Check Your Risk!
Total Cholesterol Level (mg/dl) Risk of Heart Attack
240 and above High risk
200-239 Borderline/high risk
Before 200 Desirable

Know your cholesterol level particularly if their is a family history of heart disease or stroke. If level is high, see your doctor.
All adults should have their cholesterol, HDL and triglycerides tested at least every 5 years.
Atherosclerosis can clog arteries and impede blood flow to the heart or other body organs.
A thrombus (blood clot) can form on unstable, festering atherosclerotic plaque and rapidly block blood flow. A heart attack or stroke can result.
Part 2 will be posted tomorrow. ~ Aunt Millie