Extensive Information on VLDL Cholesterol

Very low density lipoprotein is one of the three types of lipoproteins made in the liver. The other types include high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL). These lipoproteins consist of triglycerides, cholesterol, and apolipoproteins in different proportions and act as the body's internal transport device for cholesterol and lipids. VLDL cholesterol comprises maximum amount of triglycerides, whereas LDL contains the maximum amount of cholesterol.

Both LDL and VLDL are referred to as bad lipoproteins. High levels of these lipoproteins are usually indicative of high levels of cholesterol in the human body. If the level of bad cholesterol in your body is very high, then you might be at an increased risk of developing serious health problems. HDL contains the highest amount of proteins. It is referred to as good cholesterol, as it helps move the LDL towards the liver and out of our system.

VLDL constitutes our body's primary source of energy particularly during prolonged periods of fasting. Our body converts the calories consumed into triglycerides. If the calories consumed are more than calories burned, the excess triglycerides produced are stored in the form of fat cells.

These fat cells are released by the body during the periods between meals and when more calories are burned than consumed. This provides the body with the needed energy. High levels of very low density lipoprotein cholesterol is indicative of elevated cholesterol levels in the body.

One can determine the cholesterol levels with the help of blood tests. In case of healthy individuals, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol must lie between 5 and 40 mg/dL. VLDL levels are ascertained or measured from our triglyceride levels. If the triglyceride levels are higher than 400 mg/dL, then one might have high levels of VLDL. Checking the levels of VLDL, LDL, and HDL cholesterol can help the healthcare providers understand the risks associated with elevated levels of cholesterol.

High levels of VLDL have been linked to atherosclerosis, which involves both the stiffening and narrowing of the coronary arteries. This puts one at an increased risk of developing heart diseases such as strokes or heart attack. This is the reason why doctors recommend the patients with elevated VLDL levels to get a coronary risk profiling done.

Reducing cholesterol naturally would obviously involve making changes to one's diet and lifestyle. Triglyceride levels are known to spike up after the consumption of alcohol. Tobacco is known to damage the arteries and lower the HDL or good cholesterol levels.

It is therefore recommended that one must refrain from the consumption of chewing tobacco and alcohol. Obesity could also make one susceptible. Therefore, people who are overweight should try to keep a tab on their weight. Simple changes to your lifestyle can work wonders and improve your heart's health.

Take the stairs instead of the lift and walk instead of taking out the car for short distances. Regular exercise coupled with healthy eating habits can go a very long way in lowering cholesterol levels. Make sure that you include foods that lower triglycerides in your diet.

If your blood tests reveal high levels of bad cholesterol, make certain changes to your lifestyle for lowering triglycerides naturally. This will help lower the risk of heart ailments.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this story is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.