Overactive Platelets

Gbex says:The role of cholesterol in clogging arteries of the heart and brain has long been appreciated. Now it appears that's not all the cholesterol does. High cholesterol levels also cause blood platelets to become overactive.

One of the functions of platelets is to release chemicals that either relax or constrict arteries. When platelets become overactive, they can release an excess of an artery-contricting chemicla, thus precipitating a stroke or heart attack.

Studies involving twenty two men and women aged twenty three to fifty, with cholesterol levels ranging from 142 to 277, indicate the choleserol levels higher than 200 have a tendency to turn on platelets.

This is another reason to watch your cholesterol.