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High LDLDescription LDL cholesterol is considered a "bad" cholesterol, because elevated levels of LDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease. Low-density lipoprotein deposits cholesterol on the artery walls, causing the formation of a hard, thick substance called cholesterol plaque. Over time, cholesterol plaque causes thickening of the artery walls and narrowing of the arteries, a process called atherosclerosis. Our bodies naturally produce between 500 to 1000 mg total serum cholesterol each day. Causes The most common causes that may be underneath your high LDL levels include: diabetes, liver problems and hypothyroidism. See the differential diagnosis section for a complete list. Diets that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol raise the levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood. Dietary cholesterol comes from animal products: meat, poultry, fish, and dairy. Plants do not make cholesterol. High LDL is also associated with excessive consumption of unfiltered coffee. Conventional Labs LDL cholesterol of less than 100 mg/dL is the optimal level. Less than 130 mg/dL is near optimal for most people. A high LDL level (more than 160 mg/dL or 130 mg/dL or above if you have two or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease) reflects an increased risk of heart disease. A conventional assessment includes: total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides.
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Fantastic new books! CAM Therapies has studies on natural therapies for over 100 diseases. CAM Labs lists lab tests for 100 diseases. Nutritional Genetics is a fantastic resource.
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