Cholesterol: Differences Between Hdl and Ldl. Ways to Lower It?

Cholesterol: Differences Between HDL and LDL. Ways to Lower It?

Lucille M. Holden

February 27, 2012

SCI 115

Strayer University

Professor Nina Walker

Abstract

Cholesterol is a molecule that is essential to the functioning of our cells. It serves as a precursor to hormones. Cholesterol form cell membranes and vitamin D throughout the body, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption. There are two types of cholesterol considered HDL and LDL. HDL is good cholesterol, while LDL is considered bad cholesterol. LDL carries cholesterol to tissues, as it travels through the bloodstream high concentrations of LDL, may cause a buildup of plaque in the articles. The high buildup of plaque contributes to heart disease and stroke possibilities. Over the years statins have been the primary source to treat high cholesterol levels and to lower the numbers.

Outline

I. Introduction

II. Defining cholesterol

III. HDL cholesterol

IV. LDL cholesterol

V. Difference between HDL and LDL

VI. The Importance of Triglycerides

VII. Testing cholesterol

VIII. Conclusion

IX. References

Cholesterol is a soft, wax-like substance that is required as the building block of all cells in the human body. In addition to producing cell membranes, cholesterol is essential to the production of hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, bile acids, and vitamin D. It is proper in the digestion of food. Cholesterol is produced in the liver naturally. Heredity is a contributing factor in the determination of elevated cholesterol in the body. Also contributing to high cholesterol can be a diet high in saturated fats. Cholesterol flows through the body in the bloodstream. It is a lipoprotein, in other words a lipid plus protein that mixes and moves easily with the blood. There are two forms of cholesterol LDL, HDL along with Triglycerides found in the body with various functions (Bechtel, 2012).

LDL Cholesterol

Low-Density lipoprotein, LDL is...