So what causes LDL to rise? There are a few primary reasons you might develop high cholesterol levels. On the flip side is HDL ('good' cholesterol), which ushers bad cholesterol back to the liver, where it is processed and flushed out of the body. Over time, as the plaque builds up, it can increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis ( clogged arteries), heart disease, or stroke. This makes it harder for the heart to circulate blood and oxygen. When too much LDL (aka 'bad' cholesterol) is in your blood, it can build up and create sticky plaques on the walls of the arteries. Protein is denser than fat, so particles with less fat are called high-density lipoproteins (HDL), while those with more fat are called low-density lipoproteins (LDL). So it joins up with protein, forming particles called lipoproteins. See, because cholesterol is a waxy fat (a lipid), it doesn't travel well in the blood, which is mostly water. When doctors talk about cholesterol, they're really talking about lipoproteins. In addition to meds, there are natural ways to lower cholesterol. That's why it's so important you know your level and, if it's high, take action. And it's essential for creating vitamin D, bile acids, and hormones such as progesterone and estrogen.Д«ut having too much cholesterol can put you at risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. It's one of the ingredients the body needs to make new cells.

It may not sound particularly good for your body, what with the 'waxy' and 'fat-like' descriptors, but cholesterol does have some merit. Lipid disorder, hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, high cholesterol-whatever you call it, it isn't a good thing.Д¬holesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is made in your liver and travels throughout your bloodstream.

Natural ways to lower cholesterol