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1. What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a type of fat produced in the liver and is also found in some foods such as eggs, meat, milk, butter, animal fats, ...
We all need some cholesterol in our bodies to keep them healthy, but if the cholesterol level is too high, it can lead to clogged arteries and future health problems. Therefore, to maintain the necessary cholesterol level in the body, individuals should monitor their cholesterol levels and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
2. Why does the body need cholesterol?
LDL Cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein): LDL cholesterol, often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol, is responsible for transporting cholesterol to cells. However, when present in excess, it can accumulate in the arteries, leading to blockages.
- HDL Cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein): HDL cholesterol, considered 'good' cholesterol, contains more protein and less cholesterol. It aids in removing cholesterol from cells and transporting it back to the liver for disposal.
- VLDL (very low-density lipoprotein): VLDL, rich in fats and low in protein, transports triglycerides and other cholesterol from the liver to various parts of the body. Elevated levels can lead to fatty deposits in arteries, causing blockages.
- IDL (Intermediate-Density Lipoprotein): IDL transports cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Chylomicron: Chylomicrons transport triglycerides from the intestine to the liver after meals, where they are broken down, and fats are synthesized into other lipoproteins.
Women typically have higher levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) than men due to genetic differences. Normal HDL cholesterol levels are above 1.2mmol/L for women and 1mmol/L for men.
During pregnancy, both cholesterol and triglyceride levels can significantly increase. Therefore, during pregnancy, women should not check cholesterol levels as the results will not be accurate. If accurate cholesterol testing is desired, wait at least three months after the baby is born.
4. Factors Leading to Increased Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol and triglyceride levels can significantly increase due to various reasons such as:
- Unhealthy diet: high in saturated fats, foods rich in cholesterol,..
- Obesity, overweight
- Lack of physical activity, exercise
- Smoking
- Advanced age
- Diabetes
5. What Diseases Does High Cholesterol Cause?
High cholesterol levels can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol and other deposits on the artery walls affecting blood flow through the arteries in the body and causing dangerous complications such as:
- Atherosclerosis
- Angina and other symptoms of coronary artery disease
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
6. What Should You Eat with High Cholesterol?
Adopting a healthy lifestyle not only helps you reduce excess cholesterol in the blood but also helps you avoid high cholesterol. For those with high cholesterol levels, consider:
- Eating foods low in salt
- Consuming foods rich in fiber and vitamins such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains,..
- Limiting intake of high-cholesterol foods such as animal fats, organ meats, red meat,..
- Eating foods rich in omega-3 and 6 fatty acids such as fish, vegetable oils, various seeds,..
- Drinking green tea and certain herbal remedies beneficial for heart health and blood sugar.
In addition to paying attention to your diet, consider the following:
- Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
- Exercising regularly
- Limiting alcohol, alcoholic beverages
- Getting cholesterol tested by a doctor
- Reducing stress
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