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Cholesterol: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Low Cholesterol Diet
Are you wondering what food to eat to lower your cholesterol? If you are wondering how to lower your cholesterol, start with what you eat. A cholesterol lowering diet containing low fat, low cholesterol foods can lower your cholesterol. A low cholesterol diet and some cholesterol lowering foods can lower ldl cholesterol and raise hdl cholesterol.
Interpreting Cholesterol Resul
Cholesterol levels can be interpreted using three major readings: LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol levels. These results may suggest how high of a risk you have of developing heart disease.
High Cholesterol Symptoms
If you are wondering what are the symptoms of high cholesterol, the answer may surprise you. There are usually no signs of high cholesterol and no symptoms of high cholesterol. Therefore, it important to check your cholesterol on a regular basis. Don't wait for high cholesterol symptoms to happen, because you might not have any and may be diagnosed with heart disease after you discover your cholesterol levels are high.
Choosing the Right Foods
Choosing the Right Foods to Reduce Cholesterol and Heart Disease
Preparing For Your Test
High cholesterol levels may cause heart disease. A blood cholesterol test is important in detecting high cholesterol levels. It is very easy to prepare for a cholesterol test. This brief article will give you some tips before taking a cholesterol test.
When To Test
Everyone over 20 years of age, regardless to previous high cholesterol history, should have a blood cholesterol test at least every 5 years. If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, and are controlling it with diet, you should be tested every year. For individuals taking prescription medications to control cholesterol levels, like statin drugs, may need to get their cholesterol tested at least twice a year to not only check cholesterol levels, but to also check liver function.
Natural Alternatives
Natural Alternatives for Cholesterol Treatment
Exercise And Cholesterol
There has been a lot of research establishing a positive relationship between exercise and cholesterol. Exercise can reduce cholesterol. In fact, diet and exercise together reduce cholesterol by 10 percent. If you are wondering how to lower cholesterol, exercise is one of the natural ways to lower cholesterol.
Foods To Avoid
There are many foods to avoid with high cholesterol. Any low cholesterol diet should be low in saturated fat and trans fat.
Prevention
Prevention of high cholesterol is very important against heart disease. Lowering cholesterol will aid in heart disease prevention, heart attack prevention, and the prevention of heart disease.
Why Exercise?
Is there a relationship between exercise and cholesterol? Yes, there is. In fact, exercise can reduce cholesterol by 10 percent. There are many exercises for lower cholesterol, as well as exercise tips to assist you with lowering cholesterol.
Lipid Panel
A lipid panel is a series of tests that measures the amount of the different types of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. This test should be performed at least once a year and involves drawing blood from the patient.
Niacin
Niacin is also known as vitamin b3 and is used to lower cholesterol. Niacin can lower ldl cholesterol and raise hdl cholesterol. There are several side effects of niacin, including flushing. Flush free niacin is used to lower cholesterol and does not cause niacin side effects.
Deciphering the Fats
If you are wanting to follow a low cholesterol diet, the first thing you need to understand the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats. Some fats can raise cholesterol levels, while other fats lower cholesterol levels. Trans fats can raise cholesterol levels, too.
TLC Diet
The Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes diet, or TLC diet, high cholesterol diet that lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and raises HDL cholesterol. This diet is one of many diets for lowering cholesterol. The TLC diet is a good diet for high cholesterol.
Types of Lipoproteins
There are several types of lipoproteins located in the blood that function in shuttling cholesterol around in the blood to where it needs to go. The major types of lipoproteins we are concerned about are high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). Different levels of each of these proteins will suggest which types of cholesterol that are in your plasma and much you are at risk for heart disease.
Treatment Options
If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, there are many treatment options for you, such as statins, fibrates, niacin, bile acid resins, cholesterol apheresis and several natural products. Here's how to learn more.
About - Cholesterol Quiz: What's Your Number?
If you are trying to watch your cholesterol and fat intake, and LOVE to cook, there are many websites available to help you make anything imaginable to eat.
Lowering LDL
High low density lipoproteins, or LDL cholesterol, are an important risk factor for heart disease. There are may ways to lower LDL cholesterol, including foods to lower ldl levels, exercise, and medications. This article will show you how to lower LDL cholesterol.
Raising HDL Levels
High density lipoproteins, or HDLs, are produced by the liver and carry cholesterol and other fats from tissues to the liver for recycling. HDLs are good for you -- the higher your HDL levels are, the better.
Cholesterol Check
You will get a blood test that measures total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein, and triglyceride levels. This will tell you your cholesterol levels and how much of a risk you are at for heart disease.
Omega-3 Containing Foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that have been known to increase HDL (good cholesterol), decrease triglycerides, prevent irregular heart beats, and prevent blood clot formation. Although there are many over-the-counter and prescription medications containing omega-3 fatty acids, they may also be obtained through a variety of foods in your diet.
Home Cholesterol Tests
Home cholesterol tests have been available in local pharmacies for over ten years, but are they as accurate as depicted in commericals?
Low-Fat Grocery Shopping
Grocery shopping does not have to be a chore -- especially if you are following a low cholesterol and low fat diet. Many low cholesterol, low fat foods out there that are healthy and taste great. Learn healthy eating tips and what to look for when grocery shopping.
Different Forms Of Niacin
Niacin is a vague term used to describe nicotinic acid and its derivatives. There are three forms of niacin: Nicotinic acid, nicotinamide, and inositol hexaniacinate. Nicotinic acid lowers cholesterol, but is asociated with side effects, such as flushing, GI distress, palpitations, and sweating. No flush niacin preparations, such as nicotinamide and inositol hexaniacinate, reduce side effects associated with niacin, but may not lower cholesterol levels.
Cinnamon
There's been a lot of talk lately about the health benefits of cinnamon, but can it lower cholesterol levels? Scientists have established a link between cinnamon and cholesterol and it has been determined that cinnamon lowers cholesterol.
Cholesterol Definition
Cholesterol is a fatty molecule produced by the liver. It is used for many processes, including hormone synthesis and maintaining cellular integrity. However, too much cholesterol can cause detrimental effects to the body, including gall bladder disease, atherosclerosis, heart disease, and stroke.
How Does Niacin Work?
How does niacin work, how should I take it, and what side effects should I expect?
Cholesterol Ratio
Cholesterol ratio can be measured as total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol ratio or ratio between LDL to HDL cholesterol.
Sources Of Soluble Fiber
Foods high in soluble fiber make great cholesterol lowering foods. They lower cholesterol by lowering LDL. This includes a list of cholesterol lowering foods high in soluble fiber, as well as an explanation of how fiber lowers cholesterol.
The Benefits of Walnuts
Walnuts are not only good in many deserts, but they may help your heart. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), recognizing the cholesterol-lowering properties of walnuts, accepted a petition filed by the California Walnut Commission in March 2004 to list the health claim that walnuts can aid in reducing cholesterol levels. Through many studies performed by various research institutions all over the world, the benefits of walnuts have been elucidated.
Saturated & Unsaturated Fats
Unsaturated fats and saturated fats are the two main types of fats that we eat in food. Unsaturated fats are derived from plants and are considered good to eat if you are watching you cholesterol. Saturated fats are derived from animal products. This article explains the difference between saturated and unsaturated fat.
Red Yeast Rice Extract
Red yeast rice is in a lot of Asian food products. There are health benefits of red yeast rice, including the fact that red yeast rice lowers cholesterol. This article tells you the side effects of red yeast rice, health benefits of red yeast rice, and taking red yeast rice with lovastatin.
What Are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are another type of lipid (fat) circulating in the blood and account for almost 95% of the fat in the body. They are carried throughout body by a special lipoprotein called a chylomicron. High levels of triglycerides, along with low density lipoproteins, indicate a high risk of acquiring heart disease.
Grapefruit And Statins
Statins are a popular cholesterol lowering medication, however, statin side effects may also occur. A relationship between grapefruit and medications has been established, including statins and grapefruit. This article will tell you about grapefruit drug interactions.
Drugs That Can Raise Lipids
Although new drugs are supposed to help you onto the road to good health, they may have some undesirable side effects. For instance, there are some medicines that actually may cause triglycerides and LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) to increase and/or HDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol)to decrease.
Does Oatmeal Lower Lipids?
How much will oatmeal lower cholesterol? It is not totally known, however, there has been a strong, positive relationship between oatmeal and cholesterol. It is not known how oatmeal lowers cholesterol, however, it is thought htat oatmeal helps remove cholesterol from the small intestine.
Daily Cholesterol Intake
If you want to reduce your cholesterol, you should know how much cholesterol you should consume a day. Daily cholesterol intake should be closely monitored in the food you consume in order to keep your cholesterol levels in check. Exogenous cholesterol is cholesterol obtained through your diet. Understanding the daily intake limit of cholesterol will help keep your heart healthy.
Mediterranean Diet
Are you looking for a diet to lower cholesterol? If so, the Mediterranean diet may help you. The Mediterranean diet lowers cholesterol by lowering LDL cholesterol and raising HDL cholesterol. This article will teach you about a mediterranean diet menu and the benefits of a Mediterranean diet. This is one of many sample diets for lowering cholesterol.
Carnitine
L-carnitine is a non-essential amino acid that is made by the kidney and the liver and is derived from the amino acids methionine and lysine. Carnitine plays an important role in transporting long-chained fatty acid across the mitochondrial membranes in cell in order to produce energy. Recent research has determined that carnitine may play a role in lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as improving cardiac performance.
Beer Lowers Cholesterol
Good news has arrived for those of you who enjoy a cool beer every once in a while. A study currently being conducted at the University of Western Ontario has concluded that a couple of beers may produce the same effects as wine in lowering cholesterol levels.
Common Myths
There are many rumors out there circulating about high cholesterol levels. Some of them are true, however, many of them are myths. Learn about the most common myths surrounding high cholesterol.
Origins Of High Cholesterol
There are two main causes of high cholesterol - diet and genes. This article outlines what causes high cholesterol and how to treat high cholesterol.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that is used in a lot of foods. Studies have shown the health benefits of turmeric. In fact, it has been shown that turmeric lowers cholesterol. This article will tell you how to lower cholesterol naturally with turmeric, info on turmeric, and foods to eat to lower cholesterol.
No Flush Niacin
Flush free niacin, also known as no flush niacin or niacin non flushing, has been used to lower cholesterol in people who have niacin side effects. It is not known if flush free niacin lowers cholesterol, if flush free niacin is good for cholesterol, or can flush free niacin be used instead of niaspan to lower cholesterol.
Foods to Eat
Fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean meats (like chicken and fish) are good things to eat when on a low cholesterol diet. Also, look for foods high in unsaturated fats--they are not linked to heart disease.
Which Nuts Lower Cholesterol?
Nuts are a good cholesterol lowering food. Nuts, such as pistachios, walnuts and pecans lower cholesterol. There is evidence that many nuts lower your cholesterol.
Reducing Niacin Side Effects
Niacin can lower cholesterol, but there are side effects of taking niacin that may cause you to discontinue the product. This article will address niacin side effects when taking niacin to lower cholesterol.
Risk Factors
Maintaining a good cholesterol level is extremely important, as this prevents heart disease and many other complications associated with having high cholesterol. There are certain factors that may predispose you to having high cholesterol levels. Some of these, like hereditary factors, cannot be helped. Modifying your lifestyle, however, can lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease.
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes
What constitutes a healthy lifestyle? A lot of things. Healthy lifestyles can lower cholesterol, as well as have other healthy benefits. This article discusses lifestyle fitness, therapeutic diets, and other healthy lifestyle changes that lower cholesterol.
Garlic and Cholesterol
Garlic is useful in lowering cholesterol. This article will address recent information on garlic and health, medicinal benefits of garlic, and the debate on whether or not garlic lowers cholesterol.
Phytosterols and Cholesterol
Phytosterols, or plant sterols, are cholesterol-like molecules found in plants. Plant sterols lower cholesterol levels. Plant sterols are also available in a variety of products, such as phytosterols in foods and supplements. Some foods are high in plant sterols and there may or may not be benefits of phytosterol supplements. Many use plant sterols for cholesterol reduction.
Blueberries
The cholesterol lowering effects of blueberries, which contain the antioxidant pterostilbene
Cholesterol - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Cholesterol guide site.
Statins and Sleep
Statins are very effective in lowering cholesterol. New research indicates that there might be a relationship between statins and sleep. Sleep disturbance is found to be one of the side effects of statin drugs.
Low Cholesterol Recipes
If you are trying to watch your cholesterol and fat intake, and LOVE to cook, there are many websites available to help you make anything imaginable to eat.
Apples and Cholesterol
What are the health benefits of apples? There are many health benefits of eating apples, including lowering cholesterol. Apples are a cholesterol lowering food. There is a strong, positive relationship between pectin and cholesterol.
A Gene Linked To Muscle Pain
Statins are cholesterol-lowering medications that lower ldl cholesterol and raise hdl cholesterol. One of the most important statin side effects is muscle pain. Scientists may have discovered the gene that causes muscle pain caused by statins.
The Side Effect Of Statins
Statins are a group of cholesterol lowering medications that lower ldl cholesterol, raise hdl cholesterol, and lower triglycerides. These cholesterol lowering drugs are also associated with side effects. These stain side effects include statin induced myopathy such as muscle weakness.
Arginine
L-arginine is a semi-essential amino acid that is derived from glutamic acid. Arginine plays an important role in the urea cycle, which is a biochemical pathway that processes nitrogen-containing compounds in the body. Recent research has investigated the role of arginine in the treatment of high cholesterol levels, however, more research needs to be performed in order to determine the efficacy of arginine.
Tea and Cholesterol
Tea is one of the most commonly consumed beverages worldwide and possesses a lot of beneficial properties that afford it the reputation of being a healthy drink. Tea contains many different types of antioxidants. Catechins, one of the antioxidants found in varying amounts of different teas, has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the plaques that cause atherosclerosis.
Omacor
Omacor® is a new medication that consists of a high concentration of highly purified omega-3 fatty acid ethyl esters.
Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber is contained in many foods, such as psyllium, beans, nuts, and some fruits and vegetables. Studies have shown that soluble fiber can lower LDL cholesterol and reduce your risk for heart disease.
Milk and Cholesterol
Do you know the milk facts? Got milk? There is milk fat in many milk beverages, and if you are trying to follow a cholesterol lowering diet, it may be difficult to pick which type of milk you can drink. There are many types of milk available, such as whole milk, skim milk, low fat milk and soy milk. Which type of milk should fill your milk glass when following a cholesterol lowering diet?
When Good Cholesterol Goes Bad
While we think that increasing HDL cholesterol levels may prevent heart disease, there are new cholesterol studies that suggest that raising HDL levels cause heart disease.
Cholesterol Meds
There are four general classes of prescription medications available in the United States--fibric acid derivatives, statins (HMG-CoA reductace inhibitors), bile acid sequestrants, and nicotinic acid. These drugs may be taken alone or used in combination to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This is done under the discretion of your physician. Statins are the most commonly prescribed drugs.
Can Alcohol Lower Cholesterol?
Is there a relationship between cholesterol and alcohol? Research has revealed the positive effects of alcohol on the heart. Alcohol can lower high cholesterol.
Pistachio Nuts
Are pistachios good for you? Of course. Pistachio nuts are healthy nuts that are the food to eat to lower cholesterol. You can add pistachios to your list of foods that help lower cholesterol.
cheddar cheese
Thanks to a new ingredient manufactured by Forbes Medi-Tech Inc in Vancouver, Canada, cheese may be added back into the diets of those cheese lovers who are trying to watch their cholesterol levels. What makes this cheese different from its high fat counterparts? This particular cheddar cheese, marketed under the name [b]Heartfelt Plus Natural Cheese[/b], contains Reducol. Reducol is a phytosterol, which is a plant sterol that has shown promise in lowering cholesterol levels.
Busting the Egg Myth
About fifteen years ago studies, egg consumption was discouraged by many health care practioners because of their high cholesterol content. The average intact egg contains about 210 mg of cholesterol, whereas the recommended intake of cholesterol is 300 mg. However, a study published in the Journal of the Americal Medical Association refutes this. This study looked at the effects of egg consumption in 100,000 men and women, and concluded that eggs alone do not contribute to high cholesterol.
Saturated Fat
Saturated fats are in animal products and are solid at room temperature. Saturated fats have been known to raise LDL cholesterol levels.
What Are Statins?
What are statins? Statins are drugs that lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. This article will give you the names for statins commonly used and common statin therapy.
Fish and Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats found in fish, fish oil, and in the form of supplements. They typically consist of a combination of polyunsaturated fatty acids that include DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). They protect against sudden death from a heart attack and lower triglycerides. Fish may also raise HDL and LDL slightly.
What can I do?
Regardless to whether or not you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, it is never too early to watch it. Modifications to your lifestyle will be the first approach to your health care practitioner will take. This includes a healthy diet, incorporating exercise, and other changes such as smoking cessation. Ask your physician about a plan that is right for you.
Skin Cholesterol Test
PREVUE POC is a skin cholesterol test that performs a heart disease risk assessment by testing levels of cholesterol in the skin.
Can I Take Niacin?
Niacin supplements like nicotinic acid are widely available over the counter for lowering cholesterol. Should you take it to lower your high cholesterol?
Finding Time To Exercise
Exercise is an important tool used to reduce cholesterol. However, with the busy lifestyle that many of us lead, you may be having trouble finding time to exercise. Incorporating exercise into your day is not as hard as you think, and this tip will help you incorporate exercise into your everyday life.
About.com - Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Are They Heart-Healthy?
Omega-3 fatty acids - you've probably heard the term - but what do you really know about them? Take this quiz to find out and learn more about omega-3's.
Lipid
A lipid is a fat-like molecule that does not have the ability to dissolve in water. It is one of the major building blocks of animal cells. Many times, it will be referred to as a "fat".
Soy and Cholesterol
Soy protein is shown as a good food to eat to lower cholesterol. Research has shown a strong relationship between soy and cholesterol and soy and heart health. If you want to lower cholesterol naturally, choose soy.
Coffee and Cholesterol
Many studies have indicated that unfiltered coffees may affect cholesterol. Two cholesterol-raising components of unfiltered coffee, cafestol and kahweol, have been found to increase total cholesterol levels. It does so by raising LDL cholesterol and raising triglycerides. Coffee does not affect HDL cholesterol.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you have first been diagnosed with high cholesterol, or are just simply curious about it, there are many questions that you may have. These are the most commonly asked questions that I get concerning cholesterol. If you can think of any more, please email me!
Best Time To Take Statins
Statins are a popular cholesterol lowering drug. The majority of cholesterol is made during the night. Therefore, dosing statins at night would be best to get the most cholesterol lowering effect.
Easy Ways To Add Exercise
There are many benefits of exercise and research has shown a positive link between exercise and cholesterol. Not only are there exercises for losing weight, exercise lowers cholesterol, too.
Essential Fatty Acid
Essential fatty acids are fats that cannot be made by the body and must be obtained through diet. Essential fatty acids lower cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol Glossary
This is a glossary of commomly encountered words in when studying about cholesterol.
Cordaptive
If you are taking niacin for cholesterol, you are familia with the side effects of niacin, such as flushing. Cordaptive lowers side effects of niacin. It contains laropiprant, which reduces flushing associated with niacin.
Niaspan
Niaspan is a cholesterol lowering drug that lowers LDL, lowers triglyceride, and raises HDL. Niaspan is a prescription form of niacin. This article contains Niaspan drug information, Niaspan side effects, and information on who should not take Niaspan.
Policosanol
Policosanol is a dietary supplement on shelves that states that it can lower cholesterol, however, policosanol studies are few. Can policosanol control cholesterol? Studies are currently showing the benefits of policosanol. This article will tell you what policosanol is and the side effects of policosanol.
Trans Fats
Trans fats are a type of fat that has been linked to raising LDL, lowering HDL, and contributing to the heart disease. Trans fats are added to foods to extend their shelf life and to add texture. Eating high amounts of trans fats can raise your cholesterol and contribute to heart disease.
Statins and Coenzyme Q10
Statins lower cholesterol, but also cause statin side effects. Some researchers believe that statins lower coenzyme q10, which may caused statin muscle pain and statin side effects. Giving coenzyme q10 to treat coenzyme q10 deficiency may help reduce statin induced side effects.
Shopping for Niacin
Next time you go into your local pharmacy, you will notice many different bottles of niacin on the shelf. The choices are mind-boggling and the result can be costly and unhealthy.[br][br] There are certain things you need to look for before you purchase and begin to take a niacin product.
Simcor and Cholesterol
Simcor is one of the new cholesterol lowering drugs that consists of a combination of simvastatin and niaspan. Simcor lowers cholesterol by lowering LDL cholesterol levels and raising HDL levels.
Zocor Information
Simvastatin, or Zocor, is a cholesterol-lowering drug that belongs to the statin class of drugs. Zocor raises HDL levels and also lowers LDL and triglyceride levels.
Chocolate: Friend or Foe?
Is there a relationship between chocolate and cholesterol? Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains flavenoids and antioxidants - ingredients that have been shown to lower cholesterol. Therefore, there may be a relationship between dark chocolate and heart health and chocolate may aid in the prevention of heart disease.
Zetia
Zetia is a new class of drug that works with statin drugs in lowering LDL level in the blood. It act at the brush border of the small intestine to prevent the absorbtion of cholesterol into the bloodstream.
Cholesterol Drug Functions
Many cholesterol-lowering drugs are on the market. However, not all of them work the same. Some of these drugs may only lower LDL, whereas other drugs may treat all aspects of your cholesterol profile (lowering LDL and triglycerides and raising HDL).
Pecans and Cholesterol
Have you ever thought about lowering your cholesterol with food? A cholesterol lowering food, pecans, can help you lower ldl cholesterol and raise hdl cholesterol. Pecans are a cholesterol lowering nut that contain high amounts of unsaturated fats and fiber. Studies have shown that pecans are able to lower cholesterol and are considered a heart healthy food
Monounsaturated Fats
Monounsaturated fats are healthy fats that lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. Monounsaturated fats are found in nuts and oils. Learn more about monounsaturated fats.
Guggul & You
Guggul is a cholesterol lowering supplement that can lower ldl cholesterol and lower triglycerides. You may be able to lower cholesterol naturally by taking guggul as a cholesterol lowering supplement.
Hibiscus Extract Lowers LDL
According to a study performed by Shan Medical University's Institute of Biochemistry in Taiwan, extract from the hibiscus flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa) lowers both low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. These results were published in the September 15th issue of the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.
Capsaicin And Cholesterol
Capsaicin can be found in chili peppers and in the form of capsaicin pills. If you are wanting to lower cholesterol or triglycerides naturally, capsaicin may be able to help. Learn the facts about this treatment, as well as well as the chemical properties of capsaicin that help it lower triglycerdies and prevent oxidation of LDL.
Definition of Lipoprotein (a)
Lipoprotein a is a type of cholesterol that consists of LDL cholesterol attached to apolipoprotein a. When lipoprotein a is high, you might be at an increased risk of heart disease.
Rhabdomyolysis
Rhabdomyolysis is a rare, but serious, condition in which skeletal muscle fibers rapidly break down and release their byproducts into the bloodstream.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Products
Omega 3 fatty acid are available as supplements and prescription. Omega 3 fatty acids are available as omega 3 supplements and omega 3 fish oil. This article addresses the difference between omega 3 supplements, lovaza, and omacor.
HDL
High density lipoproteins, also known as HDL or good cholesterol, are molecules consisting of cholesterol and protein that carry cholesterol back from tissues or organs to the liver, where cholesterol will be degraded or recycled.
Zetia Provides No Benefit
Zetia is a cholesterol lowering drug that lowers LDL cholesterol. While it is effective in lowering cholesterol, reserachers are now finding some problems with Zetia. New research has shown that Zetia may not help prevent heart disease and plaque formation.
How Niacin Raises HDL
Niacin and cholesterol -- what's the connection? Niacin, a form of nicotinic acid, lowers cholesterol by acting to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. Scientists have discovered a new way by which niacin acts on HDL cholesterol.
Pravachol Information
Pravastatin, or Pravachol, is a cholesterol-lowering drug that belongs to the statin class of drugs. Pravachol raises HDL levels and also lowers LDL and triglyceride levels.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fat that circulates in the blood. Most of the cholesterol in your body is made by the liver, however, some cholesterol can also be obtained through diet.
Cholesterol - Articles
An index of Articles for the Cholesterol guide site.
Partially Hydrogenated Oils
Partially hydrogenated oils, also known as trans fats, are a type of fat that can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease.
Hypertriglyceridemia
Hypertriglyceridemia is a condition where there are high triglyceride levels in the blood.
Polyphenols
Polyphenols are a group of chemicals that have many potential health benefits. There are several foods containing polyphenols, including fruits, vegetables, and other plants. They are classified as polyphenol antioxidants, meaning that they remove free radicals from the body.
Polyunsaturated Fats
Polyunsaturated fats are found in fish and grains. Polyunsaturated fats lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. Polyunsaturated fats are also known as a healthy fat.
Seasonal Changes & Cholesterol
According to recent research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, cholesterol levels may vary according to the seasons. Over 500 healthy volunteers around the central Massachusetts area participated in this study, and their cholesterol levels were analyzed quarterly over a year. In addition to a total cholesterol workup, the volunteers were required to report their diet, amount of time they were exposed to sunlight, behavioral information, and their physical activity during this time.
Statins: Drugs & Conditions
Statins lower ldl cholesterol and lower triglycerides. Statins also raise hdl cholesterol. There are some conditions that may prevent you from taking a statin. Additionally, statin drug interactions may occur.
Triglyceride Transfer Protein
A study examining patients with an inherited condition of extremely high cholesterol led to researchers discovering a possible new cholesterol medication. Read all about the study here.
Myopathy
Myopathy is a general term that refers to any disease of muscle tissue that can arise at any point in life.
Coronary Arteries
Every muscle needs a blood supply, including the heart. Its blood supply comes from the coronary arteries.
Cholesterol Apheresis
The procedure is referred to [b]cholesterol apheresis[/b], or LDL apheresis, and the results have shown to be promising in the majority of patients so far. This procedure is for an individual who has exhausted all other options of lowering their cholesterol levels and has an LDL level of above 200 mg/dL with coronary heart disease, or an LDL level of 300 mg/dL without the presence of coronary heart disease.
Hyperlipidemia
Hyperlipidemia is a condition where there is an elevation of lipids, or fats, in the blood. This could be due to an increase in triglycerides, cholesterol, or both.
Torcetrapib
Pfizer will begin to manufacture a new cholesterol-lowering drug, a torcetrapib/atorvastatin combination, in its Loughbeg, Ireland facility soon. Toretrapib is a promising new investigational drug that lowers cholesterol unlike any of the cholesterol-lowering medications on the market. This drug functions by inhibiting the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), which is an important molecule in the liver that transfers cholesterol and regulates cholesterol size.
Genes Predict Heart Disease
Is high cholesterol genetic? In some cases, it could be. Scientists have found mutations that may find the causes of high cholesterol. Screening for unfavorable single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs, in genes related to high cholesterol and heart disease may help to predict heart disease risk.
What Do Lipoproteins Do?
Cholesterol does not travel alone in the bloodstream. It is unable to circulate freely in blood because it is a fat-like substance and blood is more watery. Instead, cholesterol combines with a protein that allows it to become more soluble in the blood. This cholesterol-protein complex is referred to as a lipoprotein.
IR Niacin vs. SR Niacin
If you are using niacin to lower cholesterol levels, you may have noticed that there are many different types of niacin. This article will educate you on the differences between immediate-release and sustained-release niacin.
Is Hypercholestemia Hereditary
Yes, hypercholestemia, or high cholesterol, can be hereditary. Scientists have linked this to a genetic defect in a molecule apoprotein. An apoprotein is a molecule that is bound to all lipoproteins that docks the cholesterol onto the lipoprotein. If you have a parent or sibling with abnormally high cholesterol levels, you may run a higher risk of having high cholesterol, too.
Statins and Hepatitis C
Masanori Ikeda and colleagues of Okayama University in Japan have found a new use for cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. The researchers discovered the possibility that statins may help treat patients with hepatitis C infections. This study was published in Hepatology, a journal published by the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease
Mutations And Cholesterol
Is high cholesterol genetic? In some cases, it could be. For instance, familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disease linking high cholesterol and heart disease. In fact, some inherited cholesterol diseases are the most common causes of heart disease in very early age. Scientists have found mutations that may find the causes of high LDL cholesterol.
Unsaturated fats
Unsaturated fats are derived from plant products. This type of lipid lowers "bad cholesterol", LDL, and leaves the "good cholesterol" HDL levels the same. When looking at their molecular structure, there are two or more hydrogen atoms missing with a double bond between two carbon atoms replacing them.
Statins & Hypertension
Statins lower cholesterol, but have a variety of other benefits, too, such as preventing heart disease and plaque formation. A new study has found that statins may also lower blood pressure.
Atorvastatin Information
Atorvastatin, or Lipitor, is a cholesterol-lowering drug that belongs to the statin class of drugs. Lipitor raises HDL levels and also lowers LDL and triglyceride levels.
All About Statin Drugs
Statin drugs, also known as HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme reductase inhibitors, are named so because of the statin ending that exists on the end of the name of each drug in this family. They lower cholesterol by lowering ldl and triglycerides and raising hdl.
How to Take Fibrates
How to take fibrates and common side effects associated with fibrates
Hypercholesterolemia
Hypercholesterolemia is the clinical diagnosis of high cholesterol in a patient. There are different types of hypercholesterolemia, depending on the type of lipoprotein and lipid involved.
When diet fails...
I am having trouble controlling my cholesterol levels with diet alone. Does this mean that I will have to take prescription medication?
Fibric Acid Derivatives
Fibric acid deriviatives, or fibrates, work by reducing the production of triglycerides and increasing HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol).
LDL
Low density lipoproteins, or LDL, are proteins that circulate through the body and carry cholesterol from the liver and small intestine to other tissues and cells in the body that need it. It is also referred to as the "bad cholesterol".
Statins Lower Cancer Risk
Statin drugs, such as Lipitor (R) and Zocor (R), refer to a class of drugs that interfere with the way cholesterol is made in the body. They work by blocking a particular enzyme (called HMG CoA reductase) needed by the liver to make cholesterol. The data, which was released by two research groups at the American Society of Clinical Oncology conference yesterday, gave preliminary evidence that individuals taking statin drugs may lower their incidence of getting certain cancers.
Statin Drug Information
How you should take a statin drug, common side effects, and when you should call you physician.
Information About Crestor
Rosuvastatin, or Crestor, is the most potent statin available on the U.S. market. Studies have shown that rosuvastatin an significantly lower LDL by between 45 and 65% - more so than equal doses of other statins. Rosuvastatin also lowers triglycerides and raises HDL.
Exogenous Cholesterol
Exogenous cholesterol, obtained from outside of the body, is usually obtained through diet – especially in diets high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Familial Hypercholesterolemia
Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic condition characterized by high LDL cholesterol. It has been linked as one of the causes of high ldl and the causes of heart disease at a very early age. This definition of hypercholesterolemia explains whether or not high cholesterol is genetic and the link between high cholesterol and heart disease.
VLDL
Very low density lipoproteins, or VLDL, are made up of triglycerides, cholesterol, and proteins. VLDL carries cholesterol from your liver to organs and tissues in the body. VLDL is a precursor to LDL.
Mevacor Information
Lovastatin, which goes by brand names Mevacor and Altoprev, is a cholesterol-lowering drug that belongs to the statin class of drugs. Mevacor raises HDL levels and also lowers LDL and triglyceride levels.
What Are Bile Acid Resins?
Bile acid resins, also known as bile acid sequestrants or binders, are cholesterol lowering medications that include the drugs welchol, colestipol, and cholestyramine. When lowering cholesterol with bile acid resins, you should expect your LDL cholesterol levels to increase by up to 30%.
Zetia and the Liver
Zetia (ezetimibe) is a cholesterol-lowering drug that has been noted to reduce cholesterol absorption in the small intestine. Recently, it has been discovered that Zetia (ezetimibe) also lowers cholesterol by working in the liver through the same NPC1l1 protein. This may be the cause of the relationship between zetia & gallbladder problems and zetia and elevated liver function.
How It Works
As previously mentioned, most of the cholesterol we need is manufactured in the liver. The rest of it is maintained from our diet. Once manufactured by the liver, it is ready to move into the bloodstream to various organs and tissues and carry out important functions. These functions include strengthening cell membranes, serving as a precursor to all steroid hormones, and composing bile salts (which help us to digest fat).
Flaxseed and Cholesterol
A study of the effects of flaxseed and hypercholesterolemia.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A type of unsaturated fats that are classified as an essential fatty acid, which means that they cannot be made by the body and must be obtained from the diet.

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