Very-low-density Lipoprotein (VLDL), low density relative to intracellular fluid, is a kind of fat soluble lipoprotein formed by the body. VLDL carries triglycerides and fat molecules in the blood. VLDL is the only lipoprotein group capable of breaking down into triglycerides. In order for this to occur, however, the body has to be able to absorb the VLDLs fat molecules.
VLDL transports fatty acids from the bloodstream to the liver, which then uses them for energy. Fat accumulates in the liver, where it is used to provide additional energy for the body.
VLDL passes through the walls of the arteries, but then returns to the portal vein. Blood can reach the liver within nine hours, but the amount that returns back to the walls of the arteries is usually very high. This is why most people can get their cholesterol checked at least once a year. Once there, the body determines that cholesterol-lowering medications are best for your particular condition.
There are two types of VLDL – low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein. In some people, LDL can actually cause heart disease. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) can actually improve blood cholesterol levels. However, when your levels get too high, your LDL levels can get out of hand and you could suffer from heart disease, such as blocked arteries or coronary artery disease. Even if you do not have these conditions, you may develop other heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, angina and heart palpitations, chest pain and irregular heartbeat.
It is important to regularly know your blood cholesterol levels, as well as your LDL and HDL levels, so that you can monitor your health and take appropriate action. Your doctor can do blood tests at your doctor's office. There is also a special test known as an arterial dye test that can determine if high cholesterol is in your bloodstream. If you have symptoms of heart disease, heart problems, or high blood pressure, this test can help diagnose and treat your condition.
It is important to lower high cholesterol levels by increasing your fiber intake. Fiber helps lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol in the body. It is best to eat lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. A diet rich in antioxidants, especially vitamin E, can also lower cholesterol levels in the body.
The more you eat these foods, the more effective your lowering medications will be
A good way to reduce cholesterol is by taking a daily multivitamin. You should also include fish oil in your diet and drinking a minimum of eight glasses of water daily. Eating foods rich in antioxidants such as grape seed and spinach can also help reduce cholesterol in the body. Certain vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements, such as Zinc Oxide, will help you increase your levels of HDL cholesterol.
If you have had a heart attack, you may need a more aggressive medication called statin therapy to lower your high density lipoprotein (LDL). In the case of patients with cardiovascular disease, it is advisable to start with a low dose of an anti-cholesterol drug, such as Lipitor, along with an antioxidant, such as Vitamin E and Coenzyme Q10.
Cholesterol lowering drugs are not all created equal. Some have the potential to cause unpleasant side effects such as constipation, nausea and vomiting. Therefore, it is recommended that you carefully read and understand the package insert. Also check with your doctor regarding possible interactions with other drugs you may be taking.
If you suspect you may have heart disease or high cholesterol, it is important to talk to your doctor about taking anti-cholesterol medications. Do not delay seeking medical care, even if symptoms don't improve immediately. If they don't go away, see your doctor for a complete physical examination. Don't delay seeing your doctor even if you think you are healthy. because it could lead to a more serious problem.
It is always important to remember that cholesterol does not cause heart disease. In fact, your cholesterol level is often higher than normal when you have no symptoms. It is also important to note that although cholesterol can cause damage to your arteries, there are many other factors that can contribute to high cholesterol such as high blood pressure and smoking.
Leave a Reply