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Learn about the different types of cholesterol and understand how controlling it is good for your health

The composition of cholesterol is only one, what changes is its means of transport, that is: the lipoprotein (particle) to which it is associated, according to the Ministry of Health. It can be of high or low density, depending on the composition, with different functions.

LDL cholesterol : Cholesterol combined with low-density lipoproteins is called LDL. In excess, it can deposit on artery walls, forming fatty plaques that increase the risk of obstruction and, consequently, of heart attack and stroke (CVA). Therefore, LDL is known as “bad cholesterol” and its level must be kept low.

The main consequence of excess LDL cholesterol, and consequently the obstruction of arteries, is the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as: acute myocardial infarction and stroke.

HDL cholesterol : known for being the one who “rescues” cholesterol from cells to be eliminated. They are high-density lipoproteins that, when combined with cholesterol, are called HDL. It helps to avoid clogging of the arteries, being known as “good cholesterol” and its level must be kept high.

When Cholesterol Becomes a Problem

Although it is recognized as something bad, cholesterol plays important roles in the human body. It is part of the body’s cell structure and is essential for the production of some hormones and vitamins. Cholesterol also forms bile acids, which are substances that act in digestion.

Cholesterol becomes a problem when there is an excess of the LDL-cholesterol particle, popularly known as bad cholesterol, in the body and the type of fat ingested.

The cholesterol index can be linked to lifestyle, such as poor diet, smoking, sedentary lifestyle and obesity. But it can also be associated with genetic issues, which is called familial hypercholesterolemia (HF).

Control is possible from healthy eating habits and physical activity. The subject was widely discussed by experts from different areas on CNN Vital Signs (watch the full above ).

THE treatment of cholesterol is done with medication, and medicine has advanced in this area in recent years.

In most cases, the patient takes medications such as statins, HMG-CoA reductase enzyme inhibitors (liver enzymes responsible for cholesterol production).

Another expanding treatment, which is not yet offered by the Unified Health System (SUS), is performed using injections with monoclonal antibodies. They reduce high cholesterol levels by up to 60%. In the most severe cases, minimally invasive surgical intervention is required.

Source: CNN Brasil

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