Understanding High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is a condition where there's too much cholesterol in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Surprisingly, not all cholesterol is bad; HDL, or 'good' cholesterol, helps remove LDL, the 'bad' cholesterol.
Dietary Changes Needed
Consuming more fiber-rich foods like oats, fruits, and vegetables can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol. Lesser-known fact: incorporating plant stanols or sterols, found in fortified foods, can block cholesterol absorption, effectively lowering levels.
Exercise and Lifestyle
Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, can raise HDL cholesterol. Did you know that even modest weight loss (5-10% of body weight) can improve cholesterol levels significantly? Smoking cessation also boosts HDL cholesterol.
Medications for Cholesterol Control
Statins are commonly prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol. Surprisingly, there are newer medications like PCSK9 inhibitors, which can reduce LDL by up to 60% when combined with statins, offering hope for those with genetically high levels.
Monitoring and Regular Check-Ups
Regular blood tests are crucial for monitoring cholesterol levels. An interesting fact: some people with normal LDL may still be at risk due to high lipoprotein(a) levels, a genetic variant that requires specialized tests for detection.Unexpected Cholesterol Source
Did you know? Stress can increase LDL cholesterol levels, making relaxation techniques like meditation surprisingly effective in managing cholesterol.
What does HDL cholesterol do?
Blocks cholesterol absorption
Raises LDL cholesterol levels
Helps remove LDL cholesterol
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