Cholesterol is a kind of fat that is essential to the construction of the cells that make up our body.
In addition, contrary to the widespread belief, cholesterol in and of itself is not detrimental, but rather necessary for the body to be able to operate properly.
However, in order for this to take place, their levels will constantly need to be monitored and maintained.
But what may be done to lower one’s cholesterol levels?
Find out all you need to know about high cholesterol in this article that you may follow.
What is Cholesterol?
The good cholesterol (HDL) and the bad cholesterol (LDL) both go through the circulatory system attached to different lipoproteins (LDL).
Atherosclerosis, which is the accumulation of fatty plaques and, consequently, their obstruction, is a risk factor for the onset of diseases such as acute myocardial infarction, changes in blood pressure, and even cerebrovascular accidents. Excess LDL, which is low-density cholesterol, deposits fat on the walls of small blood vessels, causing atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the accumulation of fatty plaques and, consequently, their obstruction (CVA).
One may go so far as to say that good cholesterol, also known as high-density cholesterol (HDL), offers some degree of protection.
What Causes High Cholesterol?
The consumption of a diet “rich” in foods that are high in fat, such as sausages, fried meals, or manufactured items, is the primary contributor to elevated cholesterol levels.
On the other hand, the chance of having high levels of bad cholesterol is also increased by other variables, including the following:
- Family History – If the parents have a cholesterol-raising factor, the children are likely to have it as well.
- Obesity – Increased triglyceride and cholesterol levels occur with weight growth.
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages – a factor that has a direct impact on cholesterol levels;
- Smoking – Cigarettes alter metabolism and cholesterol levels as well.
- Sedentary lifestyle – Lack of physical exercise promotes fat accumulation in the body and, as a result, cholesterol levels.
What Are The Symptoms of High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol does not usually create symptoms, and a blood test can only detect it.
As a result, it is seen as a quiet evil.
Excess cholesterol, on the other hand, may cause a fat buildup in the liver, which can cause symptoms such as:
- Lumps of fat on the skin, known as xanthelasma;
- Swelling of the abdomen for no apparent reason;
- Increased sensitivity in the belly region.
How to Diagnose
A laboratory test is the only method to determine if your cholesterol is high or not.
That is, total, bad, and good cholesterol, as well as triglycerides, may all be measured using a blood test.
What to Do to Control Cholesterol?
The key to keeping cholesterol under control is to focus on healthy behaviors and prevention.
- maintain control of body weight;
- follow a balanced diet;
- regularly practice physical exercises;
- periodically perform laboratory tests.
What to Consume?
As we saw earlier, one of the ways to prevent the increase in bad cholesterol is by betting on a healthy diet.
Include in your food routine, for example:
- vegetables, legumes and fruits;
- eggs;
- fishes;
- linseed;
- olive oil;
- wheeze.
Avoid excessive consumption of foods as much as possible, such as:
- soft drinks;
- box of juice;
- greasy food;
- fried food;
- yellow cheeses;
- Red meat.
CONCLUSION
Cholesterol is a sort of fat that is necessary for the body’s healthy functioning, as we saw above.
However, in order for this to happen, their levels must continually be kept under control.
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