Cholesterol & Cancer Awareness : Understanding the Difference Between Food Cholesterol and Blood Cholesterol

Cholesterol & Cancer Awareness : Understanding the Difference Between Food Cholesterol and Blood Cholesterol

Introduction:

Confusion often arises between food cholesterol and blood cholesterol. While they are distinct entities, the distinction is often blurred. This article aims to clarify the differences between the two and shed light on their impact on our health.

Food Cholesterol vs. Blood Cholesterol:

Food cholesterol and blood cholesterol are not the same. Dietary cholesterol is found in foods of animal origin, particularly in egg yolks and meats. 

On the other hand, blood cholesterol refers to the cholesterol present in our bloodstream. Consuming a diet high in cholesterol, especially from animal sources, can elevate LDL cholesterol levels more significantly than saturated fatty acids. 

It's important to note that individual responses to dietary cholesterol can vary (Dimitriou and Dedoussis, 2012).

Cancer and Nutrition:

Cancer ranks as a leading cause of death, second only to cardiovascular disease, especially among individuals aged 45 and older. 

The various types of cancers differ not only in the affected body part and cell type but also in terms of treatments and contributing factors. Nutrition plays a pivotal role in migration studies, as it's an essential environmental and lifestyle factor under scrutiny. 

Although pinpointing specific dietary components affecting changing cancer rates remains complex, it's estimated that adopting appropriate dietary measures could prevent 30–40% of cancer cases globally.

Cancer and Obesity:

Obesity has been linked to several types of cancer, including colorectal, prostate, uterine, pancreatic, and breast cancers. 

This association is likely due to increased levels of hormones like estrogen and insulin in individuals with high body fat. 

Furthermore, excessive alcohol consumption is implicated in the development and progression of various cancers, particularly those affecting the mouth, throat, liver, and esophagus. 

The connection between health and alcohol is complex, as moderate alcohol use may benefit cardiovascular health (Meadows and Zhang, 2015).

Nutrition-Based Diseases:

Understanding nutrition-based diseases is crucial for consumer well-being. Conditions such as Celiac disease (caused by wheat protein allergy), Kwashiorkor (resulting from protein deficiency), Anemia (stemming from iron deficiency), Stunting (due to zinc deficiency), and osteoporosis (linked to calcium deficiency in bones) impact consumer choices regarding healthy and targeted food products.

Conclusion:

Distinguishing between food cholesterol and blood cholesterol is essential for maintaining heart health. 

The relationship between nutrition and cancer is intricate, and adopting proper dietary practices can contribute to cancer prevention. Furthermore, addressing nutrition-based diseases empowers consumers to make informed choices for their overall well-being.

Content source courtesy: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7217104