Cholesterol is an organic compound which is the important component in fat metabolism. It is important to know the role of cholesterol in the organism.

• Cholesterol is a structural component in the cell membranes
• Cholesterol is a component of the bile
• Cholesterol participates in the synthesis of vitamins D and sex hormones

Cholesterol is contained in the blood in the following forms:

• Common cholesterol
• Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL). This type of cholesterol is known as bad cholesterol.
• High-density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL). This type of cholesterol is known as good cholesterol.

In adequate nutrition and enough physical exercises the blood level of cholesterol is balanced. However, in the case improper feeding(lack of fruit and vegetable, and excessive use of fast food) the blood level of bad cholesterol is increased. Increased amount of LDL or bad cholesterol in the blood contributes the to formation of cholesterol plaques on the internal surface of the blood vessels. This condition may decrease the vessels gleam and decrease the blood circulation. At the same time the elasticity of the blood vessels is reduced as well. In severe cases the vessels gleam became so narrow that may be blocked by the platelets. This condition may cause blood strokes(cerebrovascular vessels) and heart attacks(coronary arteries).

There different types of anti-cholesterol preparations:

• Statins. This type of medicines blocks the action of the enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver. The reduced amount of cholesterol in the liver cells causes them to take up LDL(bad) cholesterol from the blood.
• Fibrates. This type of preparations works increasing the amount of lipoprotein lipase that breaks down the triglyceride and increases their elimination out of the body.
• Cholestiramine. This medicine bile acid sequestrant, which binds bile in the gastrointestinal tract to prevent its reabsorption. This lowers the absorbtion of cholesterol into the blood which is eliminated with bile.