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Cholesterol has gotten a bad name. Everyone knows that high cholesterol is bad for your health. But you can't live without cholesterol, and low cholesterol can cause serious health conditions, too
What Does Cholesterol Do?
According to Healthcentral.com, cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that acts as a building block in every cell in our bodies. It even acts as the "backbone" for vitamin D, estrogen, testosterone and bile acids that help digest fat.
Types of Cholesterol
There are three types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). You need more of some than others.
HDL: "Good" Cholesterol
If your HDL, or "good" cholesterol, gets too low you can be at greater risk for heart disease. For women, it can mean a greater risk of breast cancer after menopause.
LDL and VLDL: "Bad" Cholesterol
Even your "bad" LDL and VLDL cholesterol can be too low. Too low LDL can put you at risk for certain types of cancer as well as depression and anxiety.
Know Your Levels
Most of us don't have the "too low" cholesterol problem; it is more common to have high cholesterol. Get your cholesterol levels tested so you can make the right dietary choices for your health.
Source:
Healthcentral.com: Why do we need cholesterol
Mayo Clini: High blood cholesterol--Can your cholesterol level be too low?
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