Is cholesterol really the ‘axis of evil’ it has been made out to be, or truth about cholesterol has been somewhat conveniently sidelined in the mad rush to put a blame on something for astronomical increase in the cardiovascular diseases in recent years.

If you were to ask what cholesterol is, most folks will unequivocally reply that it is a bad substance. Whoever is to blame for this incomplete knowledge about cholesterol, it is about time we learn the complete truth about it.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a lipid substance that our body requires to perform essential functions, such as building and maintaining cell membranes, hormone production, Vitamin D production et al. There is nothing bad in this, is it?

So, what gives cholesterol the bad name? While, it is true that our body requires cholesterol in certain amounts, it is also correct that presence of cholesterol in more than normal quantity is seriously detrimental to our health.

Cholesterol is of two types: High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Low Density Lipoprotein. While HDL is the good cholesterol, LDL is referred as bad cholesterol. The effect these two have on our body couldn’t have been more different.

Excessive cholesterol clogs our arterial walls, affecting the flow of blood. LDL, or bad cholesterol, is the main contributor to this build up. HDL, or good cholesterol, on the opposite facilitates the transfer of LDL to liver, which is responsible for breaking LDL into simpler substances and flushing it out from our system.

Excessive Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure

High blood cholesterol levels are the biggest cause of high blood pressure, which is also referred as Hypercholesterolemia, a condition in which blood fails to move smoothly through our arteries and veins. Excessive LDL in our blood clogs our arteries, impairing their ability to transfer blood. Though, high blood pressure is not a disease in itself, it is a condition that can lead to various serious health problems, including cardiovascular diseases.

Normal blood pressure range

The normal blood pressure range is, 120-80. Blood pressure in the range of 140-90 is considered as high and requires attention. As high LDL is a major cause of high blood pressure, you must have your LDL levels tested, if your blood pressure is significantly more than normal.

Help lower your cholesterol levels naturally

Starting today, make positive changes in your lifestyle and eating habits to bring your cholesterol levels down.

Do away with fatty foods, such as red meat, or fast food; instead, focus on foods that have high fiber and starch content, such as fresh vegetables and fruits. Also, take up a physical activity, one that you are comfortable with and can do almost daily without putting your body under stress.

Make use of the natural steps listed above to lowering your cholesterol and live an active, healthier, and safer life. Or check out our Blood Pressure Program.

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