Ins and outs of Cholesterol
Cholesterol is found in every cell in the body, where it helps to produce cell membranes, hormones (such as estrogen, cortisol and testosterone), vitamin D, and bile acids which are the final break-down products of cholesterol. Cholesterol also plays a vital role in brain structure and function, as 25% of the body’s total cholesterol is found in the human brain. We cannot live without cholesterol and thus it is a friend not a foe!
When a doctor sends off a blood sample for a “lipogram”, the two lipoproteins that are routinely reported are LDL (low density lipoprotein) and HDL (high density lipoprotein), but what are the implications when these levels are deemed to be too high or too low? And how does it affect blood vessel walls? Are the statin drugs that are prescribed by doctors to lower cholesterol levels the best solution? What is the relationship between chronic inflammation in the body and cholesterol? Is there a link between cholesterol levels and depression, violence and aggression? How safe is the use of statin drugs described by doctors to lower cholesterol levels?
These are just a few examples of the topics that Nola will cover in her in depth talk about the role and importance of cholesterol.
Gut Health
In this talk Prof Nola Dippenaar will explain - in easy to understand layman’s terms – the vital role played by the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT) in health – in effect the “petrol tank” of the body.
The 8 meter long GIT plays a vital role in general health. An integral part of its functioning is the presence of 2 kg of friendly bacteria, also known as the microbiome. Many pathologies (medical conditions) arise from disturbances in gut function. During this talk Nola will highlight the complex interaction between the GIT and the rest of the body - including the amazing continuous communication between our first brain and our second brain, which surrounds the GIT.
Healthy balanced nutrition, fuel for the body, will also be discussed.
Prof. Nola Dippenaar has a PhD in the field of essential fatty acids and cancer. She also has Masters degrees in Biochemistry and Physiology. She was appointed as a Professor at the University of Pretoria with the Department of Physiology and is presently running her own company, Health Insight.
Her main area of research lies in the field of Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome. She believes passionately that through understanding and insight into the functioning of the human body one is empowered to take responsibility for one’s precious health.
Pictured above: Prof. Nola Dippenaar.
When: Wednesday, 31 October 2018
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Where: Presbyterian Church,
67 Main Road, Howick
NOTE: Entrance only from Fraser Street side!
Attendance Fee: R 100,00.
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