High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol

Released on = July 11, 2005, 4:18 am

Press Release Author = Lipidhealth

Industry = Healthcare

Press Release Summary = The Role of High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol

Press Release Body = The Role of High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) have an important role to play especially in the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease. The role of this important lipoprotein can be further enumerated below.

HDL and its working
HDL are the smallest and densest of all lipoproteins and have the highest proportion of proteins. It has the capability of picking up cholesterol, which is carried, internally from the cells it interacts with. These are considered to be good lipoproteins as they carry cholesterol from the body's tissues to the liver for excretion. Once cholesterol combines with HDL, a plasma enzyme called lecithin: cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) acts to convert the free cholesterol into cholesteryl ester. Cholesteryl ester is a more hydrophobic form of cholesterol and is sequestered into the core of the lipoprotein particle. This leads to the final synthesis of the new HDL spherical. As it circulates through the bloodstream, the HDL spherical further increases in size by internalizing more cholesterol molecules finally reaching the liver for excretion.

Prevention of coronary heart disease Coronary heart disease (CHD) is caused by the accumulation of atheromatous plaques within the walls of the arteries that supply the myocardium or the muscle of the
heart. After decades of progression, some of these atheromatous plaques may rupture and cause the activation of the blood clotting system. This then starts to limit blood flow to the heart muscle. HDL help to remove cholesterol from atheroma within
the arteries, and transport it back to the liver for excretion. Studies reveal that the HDL level in men is much lower, with smaller size & lower cholesterol content, than women. Thus men also have an increased risk and incidence of heart diseases.
Studies demonstrate that high concentrations of HDL ranging over 60 mg/dL tend to protect against cardiovascular diseases. Low concentrations on the other hand at a range below 40 mg/dL for men and below 50 mg/dL for women can prove to be a high
risk factor.

Treatment
Patients with coronary heart disease or those at risk can increase the amount of HDL in their body. This can be attained by avoiding readily oxidized fats like saturated fats and trans-fats. Limited use of carbohydrates and processed sugars also helps to
reduce production of Low-density lipoproteins while increasing High-density lipoproteins. Keeping blood pressure at normal, exercising and quitting smoking can also help to limit the progression of the disease.

Lipidhealth.org is dedicated to battling the disease, by its prevention and treatment through safe and effective methods. Our panel of experts works and guides patients on the right attitude, lifestyle and treatment options.

Web Site = http://www.lipidhealth.org

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