Cholesterol is an organic compound belongs to the steroid group, which occurs in a free state or as esters of fatty acid in all animal tissues. In a normal man it is about 0.3% of his average weight. It is the starting material from which the body produces bile acid, steroid hormones and pro-vitamins in the body. It is used by the body to help digestion as well.
Cholesterol was discovered in 1812. Its name arise from its occurrence in Gallstones derived from the Greek Word "Chole-Stereos-al" meaning Bile Solid. The Formation of Cholesterol occurs in various tissues and organs particularly the Brain, Liver and Arteries.
The Increase in its quantity beyond a certain level can be harmful to our body. Excess of cholesterol gets deposited in the wall of Arteries will cause blockage and hardness, which affects the free-flow of Blood. Due to this, quantity of blood flow decreases and consequently the oxygen supply will also get decreased. This condition is termed as Arteriosclerosis.
We know that Coronary Arteries play a vital role for the Heart to function. They provide oxygen and carry blood to the heart. If this get blocked the particular part of the heart may stop functioning, which leads to Heart- Attack.
Cholesterol can be controlled by a Balanced Diet. A high concentration of Cholesterol is present in the foods of Animal Origin like Meat, Egg, Butter etc... Doctors commonly advices to avoid such foods by substituting foods like Fruits, Vegetables, Cereals and so on.
Lowering Cholesterol level in blood reduces the risk of Heart-Attack. Many other measures can also be taken to maintain the Cholesterol level by giving up Smoking, regular exercises, avoiding Over-eating and avoiding fatty Substances.
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