Cholesterol is carried around in the bloodstream by one of three carrier molecules, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL). The ideal cholesterol ratio is one where the amount of HDL-CHO in the bloodstream is higher than that of LDL-CHO.

Cholesterol is in the steroid family of organic molecules. Synthesized in the liver, it consists of four hydrocarbon rings and an alcohol group. It gives stability to cellular membranes, without which we would all fall apart. It forms the raw material for the body to manufacture various steroid hormones, which control the activity of various genes within the cell nucleus. Its third function is to insulate neuronal fibers and accelerates transmission of nerve signals.

Medical opinion is divided as to which factor is more important, the total CHO or the LDL/HDL ratio. There are several ways of expressing this figure. This is the least costly way to measure CHO. Other methods of expression are LDL:HDL or HDL:LDL. Although more costly to determine, LDL:HDL provides a more accurate measure of heart disease because expresses the relative amount of ‘bad’ to ‘good’ CHO.

Regardless how it is measured, the bottom line is that too much cholesterol can cause a number of health problems. High levels can cause fatty deposits called atheroma to build up on the inner surface of the arteries, causing them to become narrow in diameter. This is also known as atherosclerosis and, over a period of years, can restrict the flow of blood through the artery.

Atherosclerosis can lead to heart diseases like angina or myocardial infarction (heart attack). In the brain, it can lead to a stroke or a blood clot. Outside the brain and the heart, atheroma can also lead to peripheral vascular disease (PVD), or narrowing of the peripheral arteries.

Regular exercise, eating a healthy diet and maintaining an optimum weight can all help to maintain the correct level and reduce the chances of a cardiac, cerebrovascular event or PVD. Controlling blood pressure and not smoking also help to avoid the problems associated with atheroma.

Watching your cholesterol is one way to maintain a healthy circulation. One way is to avoid eating fatty foods. Although there is a genetic component to heart disease, controlling this single parameter can help prolong a healthy life.

You can get tips on how to reduce Cholesterol levels and details about the reasons why it is important to know your cholesterol ratio on our site, now.