4. Cholesterol and CVD

• What is cholesterol's role in the body?

  Transported by lipoproteins
• What are the two types of lipoproteins?

  High density and low density lipoproteins
• What is the function of high density lipoprotein (HDL)?

  Transports cholesterol to the liver
• What is the function of low density lipoprotein (LDL)?

  Transports cholesterol from the liver to blood
• What is a cholesterol

  A type of lipid made in the body
• Why do we need cholesterol

  It is important for good health and is part of the cell membrane, also forms part of testosterone and progesterone.    
• Where does cholesterol come from

  Diet and made in our liver from saturated fats
• What is a lipoprotein

  Cholesterol and protein
• Why is cholesterol carried in lipoprotein form?

  It cannot be carried on its own  
• How do anti-cholesterol drugs work

  Prevent synthesis of LDL and increase HDL  
• High density lipoproteins

  • Mainly proteins
  • Transport cholesterol from body tissues to liver to be recycles and excreted
  • Reduces blood cholesterol when too high
• Low density lipoproteins

  • Mainly lipids
  • Transport cholesterol from liver to blood
  • Increase total blood cholesterol when too low
• Total cholesterol levels should be:

  • 5mmol/L or less for healthy adults
  • 4mmol/L or less for those high at risk
• LDL levels should be

  • 3mmol/L or less for healthy adults
  • 2mmol/L or less for those at high risk 
• Ideal HDL level is above 1mmol/L, anything below. Increases heart disease risk