I wonder how many people take time to do an annual health screening on a yearly basis. As much as I’m a believer of natural health remedies, I believe it’s necessary to do a health check regularly.

Two years ago, I was told that my cholesterol levels were on a high. Since, I have been keeping watch over my diet and lifestyle patterns. It puzzled me about my high cholesterol levels as I have been very watchful in my diet. But I guessed my stress and late nights had caused that which led me to making lifestyle adjustments.

It is very important to know that there are several types of cholesterol. When you have your cholesterol levels checked, you are usually told the total cholesterol level. Total cholesterol level consists of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Low-density lipoprotein is also known as ‘bad cholesterol’ and this substance can be harmful to the human body when it accumulates in excess. Bad cholesterol (LDL) accumulates inside arteries and perturbs normal blood circulation. Good cholesterol (HDL) is benign to the organism, as it collects low-density lipoprotein from the bloodstream and brings it back to the liver.

The liver produces cholesterol (a waxy, viscous substance) in small amounts, as it is required in certain physiological processes. Without cholesterol, the body is unable to produce hormones (testosterone and estrogen), vitamin D (fortifies bone tissues) and bile (a very important substance used in digesting fat). While in small quantities cholesterol is good for the organism but when it is in excess it can cause a lot of harm. Cholesterol is not soluble in blood and therefore it accumulates and deposits inside arteries, slowing down the normal blood circulation. I’m sure you have heard that high cholesterol levels can increase the risk of cardio-vascular diseases and even heart failure.

For natural health remedies to prevent high cholesterol, I have read that red yeast rice contains several compounds collectively known as Monacolins, substances known to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. Red Yeast Rice is the product of yeast ( Monascus purpureus ) grown on rice, and is served as a dietary staple in some Asian countries. It is a mild aid for gastric problems (indigestion, diarrhea), blood circulation and spleen and stomach health.

So if you haven’t done your health screening for a while, it’s time to give your health provider a call. For me, I’m going to check out some Black Friday promotions online for some gifts.