Things To Know About High Blood Cholesterol

Blood cholesterol is one of the most important constituents of the blood/body. It has varied bodily functions, and it builds up healthy cells. It is an essential constituent of the cell wall (membrane), and if the level of blood cholesterol falls below normal, the walls of the red blood cells (RBC) are likely to rupture, thus causing a severe fall in haemoglobin (Hb).

Cholesterol mainly comes from the diet, i.e. from butter, ghee (saturated fat), egg-yolk, non-vegetarian food. Sea food/fish contains a low content of saturated fat. However, polyunsaturated fats like safflower, corn, sunflower, soybean, and cotton seed oils, etc do not give rise to serum cholesterol levels in the blood. These are recommended both for prevention and treatment of high blood cholesterol.

Cholesterol is also synthesized/made in the body. It has got limited excretion. Some is passed in faeces/bile, but is mostly retained in the body. The level of blood cholesterol rises as soon as the person eats.

The normal blood cholesterol level should be between 150-199 mg/ dl, and if it is more than 240 mg/ dl, it is considered a high level of blood cholesterol. Patients having a blood cholesterol level between 200-239 mg/ dl are borderline cases. Both in high and borderline cases, repeated check-ups of blood cholesterol are required.

However, those with a normal level of blood cholesterol must get their blood it checked-up, at least every five years, especially after the age of 40. In general, all persons above the age of 20 must get their blood tested to exclude high levels of cholesterol.