Serum Cholesterol

Serum Cholesterol Levels are the total cholesterol
levels which are found within the body's blood
stream.
Everyone has cholesterol which naturally occurs
within the body's organs and cells.

Cholesterol

There are in fact two types of cholesterol found within the human body. 
These are more commonly referred to as bad cholesterol and good cholesterol.

Cholesterol is produced within the body's liver or intestines and moves through the
body's blood stream.

High Density Lipoprotein are the good cholesterol.  This is often abbreviated as HDL.

Of course, cholesterol is an essential and necessary part of the human body as it is this
which gives the body it's energy and helps to keep the body's organs healthy. 

Low Density Lipoprotein are the bad cholesterol.  This is normally abbreviated as LDL.

High levels of bad cholesterol can cause narrowing or blockage of the body's arteries,
which pump the blood around the body. 

The narrowing or blocking of the arteries will lead to all sorts of health problems
including heart disease and heart attacks which can of course be fatal.  Blocked or
narrowed arteries can also lead to a stroke.

Food

Every day foods which are considered to produce bad cholesterol are most dairy
products and red meat.

The UK's population is actually considered to have one of the highest serum
cholesterol levels, alongside America.

A healthy serum cholesterol level is considered to be one where the good cholesterol
far exceeds the bad cholesterol.  It is considered that the ratio of the good cholesterol
should be twice as much as the badcholesterol. 

Serum Cholesterol Levels will be determined by  your GP to detect the levels of both
the bad and good cholesterol affecting the body's blood stream.  The serum
cholesterol level will assist the GP in determining whether the balance of good and
bad cholesterol is finely tuned.  This assists in the diagnosis of cholesterol problems
and the determination of appropriate treatment.

Cholesterol levels

A normal cholesterol level is said to be 5.2 mmols per litre of blood.  Chronically high
serum cholesterol levels contribute to the formation of plaques in the arteries, leading
to narrowing and blockages of the arteries.

If serum cholesterol levels are considered to be higher than the recommended level,
there are certain recommendations and treatment which can be suggested to help
lower the levels of cholesterol.  Obviously this is essential to enable you to lead a
long and healthier lifestyle.

It is usual that a GP will recommend a good diet and exercise.  However, dietary
supplements can help to reduce cholesterol levels within the bloodstream. 
Often people do not have the time to exercise or eat a healthy diet and so
supplements can be an easy way of helping to reduce cholesterol.

It is also recommended that sufferers of high cholesterol quit smoking.