What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy substance, present in many body tissues. It
is an essential nutrient necessary for healthy cell membranes, as
well as synthesis of vitamin D and some hormones. It is made in
the liver from digested fats and is carried in the blood.
Cholesterol is also present in certain foods, such as egg yolk and
liver.
Blood cholesterol level is affected by the diet, since cholesterol
is present in certain foods and is manufactured in the body from
digested fats. High levels of cholesterol in the blood are
associated with hardened arteries (known as atherosclerosis),
coronary artery disease (heart attack) (heart attack), and stroke.
What is "bad" and "good" cholesterol?
There are many types of cholesterol. LDL or Low-density
lipoprotein is the "bad" cholesterol, as it blocks the arteries.
HDL or High-density lipoprotein is the "good" cholesterol, as it
protects the arteries from clogging.
What are normal cholesterol levels?
Blood can be tested for the cholesterol level. The total
cholesterol in the blood includes both HDL and LDL cholesterol. A
total cholesterol level of less than 250 mg% is considered normal.
High HDL levels (more than 60 mg%) reduce the risk for heart
disease and low levels (less than 35 mg%) increase the risk.
How to control cholesterol?
Cholesterol levels can be kept in the normal range by eating a
balanced diet and exercising regularly. It is important to eat the
right foods (low cholesterol) to keep a healthy weight.
Avoid foods that contain a lot of cholesterol like meats and egg
yellow. Eat less fat especially saturated fats, generally obtained
from animal sources. Avoid fried foodstuff especially snacks and
fast foods.
Eat more of fresh fruits, grains, vegetables and salads avoiding
oil-based dressings, which can be substituted with vinegar or
lemon-based dressings. Cook vegetables with herbs or spices
instead of cooking oil or ghee. Use oils like sunflower,
safflower, olive or corn oil. Avoid palm or coconut oil. Eat egg
whites instead of whole eggs. Use low-fat dairy products like
skimmed milk, low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese instead of cream or
processed cheese.
What is the treatment for high cholesterol levels?
There are drugs known as statins that inhibit the liver enzyme
used in the manufacture of cholesterol. They are the most
effective drugs for the treatment of high cholesterol. They are
recommended for most patients with high cholesterol levels,
particularly those with diabetes, existing heart disease, or both.
Cholesterol Medications
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