In today's fast-paced world, it's crucial to stay on top of your health, especially when it comes to managing your cholesterol levels. With heart disease being one of the leading causes of death worldwide, understanding how to maintain healthy cholesterol levels is paramount. That's where Healthspan comes in. In this guide, we'll explore what cholesterol is, its functions, the different types of cholesterol, what constitutes a healthy cholesterol level, the causes of high cholesterol, the consequences of elevated levels, and how Healthspan's range of supplements can assist in maintaining or restoring healthy cholesterol levels.
Table of contents:
- About cholesterol
- Can supplements help with cholesterol?
- What supplements do Healthspan offer to help maintain or restore a healthy cholesterol?
- What are plant sterols?
- Can you take plant sterols alongside other supplements?
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About Cholesterol
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol often gets a bad rap, but it's actually essential for the body's normal functioning. It is a waxy substance found in the blood and is produced by the liver. Despite its negative connotations, cholesterol is vital for building cell membranes, synthesizing vitamin D, and producing hormones such as estrogen and testosterone.What Does Cholesterol Do?
Cholesterol plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including:- Cell Structure: It helps maintain the structure and flexibility of cell membranes.
- Hormone Production: Cholesterol is a precursor to the synthesis of steroid hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and testosterone.
- Vitamin D Synthesis: It aids in the production of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function.
The Different Types of Cholesterol
Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in lipoproteins, which are particles made of fat and protein. There are two primary types of cholesterol:- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells. High levels of LDL can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL transports cholesterol away from the cells and back to the liver, where it is broken down and excreted. High levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
What is a Healthy Cholesterol Level?
Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is vital for overall health and well-being. According to the NHS, the recommended cholesterol levels are as follows:- Total Cholesterol: Ideally below 5 mmol/L
- LDL Cholesterol: Ideally below 3 mmol/L
- HDL Cholesterol: Ideally above 1 mmol/L for men and above 1.2 mmol/L for women
What Causes High Cholesterol?
Several factors can contribute to high cholesterol levels, including:- Unhealthy Diet: Consuming foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods, processed meats, and baked goods, can raise LDL cholesterol levels.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Leading a sedentary lifestyle can lower HDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of obesity, which is associated with high cholesterol.
- Smoking: Smoking damages the walls of blood vessels, making it easier for cholesterol to accumulate and form plaque.
- Genetics: Family history and genetic factors can predispose individuals to high cholesterol levels, known as familial hypercholesterolemia.
Consequences of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol levels can have serious implications for health, including:- Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaque in the arteries can narrow and harden them, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Coronary Heart Disease: Blocked arteries can lead to chest pain, known as angina, or a heart attack if the blood supply to the heart is completely cut off.
- Peripheral Artery Disease: Reduced blood flow to the limbs can cause pain, numbness, and potentially lead to tissue damage and infection.
Can Supplements Help with Cholesterol?
While lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise are crucial for managing cholesterol levels, supplements can also play a supportive role. Healthspan offers a range of supplements specifically formulated to help maintain or restore healthy cholesterol levels.Healthspan's Cholesterol Supplements
One of Healthspan's flagship products for cholesterol management is its Plant Sterols supplement. Plant sterols are natural compounds found in plants that have been clinically proven to lower LDL cholesterol levels by blocking its absorption in the intestine. By taking Healthspan's Plant Sterols supplement, you can effectively reduce LDL cholesterol levels and support heart health.What are Plant Sterols?
Plant sterols, also known as phytosterols, are structurally similar to cholesterol and compete with it for absorption in the gut. By competing, plant sterols lower the LDL cholesterol levels without affecting HDL cholesterol levels. They are naturally present in small amounts in various plant-based foods such as nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, and whole grains.Can You Take Plant Sterols Alongside Other Supplements?
Yes, plant sterols are safe to take alongside other supplements. In fact, combining plant sterols with other cholesterol-lowering supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids can enhance their efficacy. Healthspan offers a comprehensive range of supplements designed to support heart health, including omega-3 fish oil capsules and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplements.
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