What is the function of cholesterol molecules?
Although high levels of cholesterol can lead to heart disease and stroke, cholesterol does have important functions in your body. It has a role in eliminating excess fat, transporting nutrients and synthesizing hormones. It also participates in cellular membrane function.Fat TransportHDL, or good cholesterol, in the bloodstream transports excess cholesterol from your tissues to the liver for elimination, thus helping to control your serum cholesterol levels.Hormone ProductionThe cholesterol molecule forms the chemical base of important hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, which play a role in maintaining normal sexual function.Vitamin DVitamin D synthesis also depends on cholesterol as a precursor molecule. The functions of vitamin D include helping in the formation of bone from calcium and the regulation of blood sugar.Fat DigestionYou need bile to help break down the fat in your diet. Your liver, which can make cholesterol, uses it to produce bile. The gall bladder stores the
