07/15/2024
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your blood. Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but having high levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease. It’s carried through your bloodstream attached to proteins known as lipoproteins.
There are two types of cholesterol:
•Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, LDL can build up in the walls of your arteries, making them hard and narrow.
•High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries.
Causes of High Cholesterol
Several factors can contribute to high cholesterol, including:
1. Diet: Consuming too much saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol can raise your cholesterol levels.
2. Lack of Exercise: Physical inactivity can increase LDL and decrease HDL cholesterol.
3. Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to higher LDL levels.
4. Genetics: High cholesterol can run in families, meaning genetics play a role in how your body processes cholesterol.
5. Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels tend to increase with age. Before menopause, women generally have lower total cholesterol levels than men, but after menopause, women's LDL levels tend to rise.
Risks Associated with High Cholesterol
High cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque forms in the arterial walls, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. This can result in:
• Coronary Artery Disease: Reduced blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attacks.
• Stroke: Decreased blood flow to the brain can result in a stroke.
• Peripheral Artery Disease: Reduced blood flow to the limbs can cause pain and mobility issues.
Managing High Cholesterol
Managing high cholesterol involves lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Healthy Diet:
-Reduce Saturated and Trans Fats: These fats, found in red meat and full-fat dairy products, raise your total cholesterol. Limit these in your diet.
-Eat Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Foods like salmon, mackerel, and walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have heart-healthy benefits.
-Increase Soluble Fiber: Foods like oats, fruits, and legumes can help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in your bloodstream.
-Add Whey Protein: Whey protein, found in dairy products, may lower LDL cholesterol levels.
-Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can help raise HDL cholesterol while lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
-Maintain Healthy Weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can help reduce cholesterol levels.
-Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake: Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol, while excessive alcohol can lead to high cholesterol and other health issues.
-Medication: If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe medications such as statins, which help lower cholesterol levels.
It's never too late to take control of your cholesterol and improve your overall well-being. Do you have an excellent primary care doctor? Have you had your annual physical? Do you currently have high cholesterol and need to be seen by a doctor. Dr. Querci at DDC Health Care is caring and thorough. He is now accepting new patients in Bonita Springs. Call today to schedule your appointment. 239-256-1609