What is Cholesterol?

Most of us often come across the phrase ‘cholesterol free’ on the labels of food products.  It has become so common that we hardly stop to think of its significance or meaning.

Cholesterol is in fact, essential for our life. It is a fatty steroid within the cell membrane and is required for fluidity and permeability.

Source- Cholesterol is created within our body but high levels of cholesterol in blood may result in atherosclerosis, a condition where there is a thickening of the arterial wall. Animal fat like egg yolk, red meat, cheese and poultry are rich in cholesterol. However, total intake of fat is more likely to increase the blood cholesterol level rather than the intake of cholesterol itself. Food products obtained from vegetables and fruits are normally cholesterol free.

Associated Diseases- High levels of blood cholesterol may lead to abnormality of the heart and blood vessels. The risk increases with age. Sometimes, high cholesterol levels can be traced to genetic causes.

Diet- Cholesterol level can be effectively lowered by following a suitable diet. Even persons on cholesterol lowering medications can combat the problem adequately by changing their diet.

Saturated Fat- Avoiding saturated fats in the diet is the first step towards reducing your cholesterol level. However, the total intake of fat must be restricted as well.

Trans-Fat- Trans-Fats are manufactured by adding hydrogen to vegetable oils. Commercially available food products often contain high amount of trans-fat and are an even higher risk than saturated fats.

Vegetable Fats- Although animal fats increase the blood cholesterol, it has been seen that a few vegetable food and commercially packaged food products are equally harmful. It is; therefore, wise to read the labels on the packaged food properly before consuming them.

Obesity- Overweight people often suffer from a number of complications. High blood cholesterol is one of them. Fat contains almost double the calories as the same amount of protein or carbohydrate. Cutting down on fat often serves a dual purpose. It  reduces the  body weight and helps in a reducing the blood cholesterol level as well.