The maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels is important for the health of the cardiovascular system. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance which is produced by the liver and also made by most cells in the body. Cholesterol forms part of every cell in the body and is crucial for many vital functions including hormone production, metabolism efficiency and production of vitamin D and bile acids. Sometimes, however, our bodies make more cholesterol than we need, and this excess cholesterol circulates in the bloodstream. 

 

There are two types of cholesterol, high density lipoprotein and low density lipoprotein, also know as HDL and LDL. LDL is the type of cholesterol that we need to keep an eye on. High levels of LDL cholesterol can clog blood vessels and increase the risk for heart disease and stroke. HDL is a good type of cholesterol that helps clear the LDL cholesterol out of the blood and reduces your risk of heart disease. 

 

High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to clogged arteries in a process called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries. Plaque consists of deposits of cholesterol and other lipids, calcium, and large inflammatory cells called macrophages. These plaques can cause several problems such as obstruction of blood flow, blood clot rupture, or weakening of the artery wall. If left untreated, atherosclerosis commonly leads to other more serious cardiovascular conditions. For every one percent you lower your blood cholesterol level, you reduce your risk for heart disease by two percent.

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains, omega 3’s from fish oil and soluble fibres such as oats helps to promote healthy cholesterol levels. The herb Globe Artichoke may help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, while CoEnzyme Q10 reduces oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

 

Maintaining healthy blood glucose levels throughout life is important in sustaining your general health and wellbeing. “Blood sugar level” refers to the amount of glucose (sugar) present in the blood. Glucose is the primary source of energy for the body’s cells. Blood glucose levels outside the normal range may be an indicator of a medical condition. The liver has a very important role in regulating blood sugar levels, as does the pancreas, which releases insulin to move sugar out of the blood and into the cells. To assist in maintaining healthy blood glucose levels it is important to have a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise. Gymnema is a herb that may help to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. 

 

Carbohydrates that break down quickly during digestion and release glucose rapidly into the bloodstream have a high GI, while carbohydrates that break down more slowly, releasing glucose more gradually into the bloodstream, have a low GI. A lower glycaemic index means slower rates of digestion and absorption of the carbohydrates in foods and usually equates to lower insulin requirements. Consuming a diet rich in high-GI foods causes a more rapid rise in blood glucose levels. Research has shown that very high glucose levels after meals, called glucose spikes, are damaging to our arteries and other blood vessels. Eating low-GI foods means you avoid those spikes and dramatic falls in blood-glucose so you get a much steadier stream of energy, therefore, helping reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic disease that are impacted by erratic blood-glucose fluctuations.