High cholesterol levels do not show any symptoms. So, we usually don’t know about it until it starts harming our health. Studies show that 1 out of 6 adults has problems related to high cholesterol. Our body makes a waxy, fat-like substance called cholesterol, which travels through the blood. In the right amount, cholesterol helps build hormones, vitamin D, and other substances needed for digestion. We can also get cholesterol from foods like meat, shrimp, and dairy products.
The main problem with having too much cholesterol is that it hardens and clogs the arteries, leading to heart disease. In the United States, this condition has become a leading cause of death. Atherosclerosis, caused by high cholesterol, reduces the flow of oxygen-rich blood and affects the functioning of the heart, arms, legs, pelvis, kidneys, and brain.
What kind of cholesterol do you have?
If you are aged above 20 years, then it is suggested to go for cholesterol measurement in every 5 years. In general, there are three types of cholesterol present:
-HDL (High Density Lipoproteins): Consider as good for health, it is required for making of the arteries.
-LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins): Our body doesn’t require this as it causes the building of cholesterol and block the arteries.
-Triglycerides: yet another form, it is found in the blood.
Reasons behind fluctuation in cholesterol level
There are numerous factors behind the increased level of cholesterol in the body.
1.Diet
This is the main concern because the saturated food that we eat causes the increase in cholesterol level. Therefore, it is important to keep a check on the food we consume.
2.Weight
Overweight invites lots of diseases. One such is the problem of heart disease. This is the indication that you must decrease your weight and follow the healthy diet plan.
3.Physical activity
If you are doing regular exercise, then it will decrease your bad cholesterol level. Therefore, you must go for a walk or do exercise for at least 30 minutes.
4.Hereditary
It is said that the high cholesterol problem runs in the history. The women are at higher risk after the menopause.
5.Smoking
It has the direct link with the heart disease as it smoking increases the chances of stroke.
Do medications work?
Normally, doctors suggest changing the lifestyle and enrolling more and more physical activity in your life. If you fall into the below group, then you have to take the medication.
– Having vascular disease
– Elderly people with chronic heart disease
– Having diabetes
In short, you have to take the smart steps for decreasing your cholesterol level. Stop smoking, eat healthy food rich in fiber and keep your weight under control. Take care of these things and say goodbye to the bad cholesterol.
