Ad:

What is cholesterol and how can it be lowered?

You can read this text in 3 min.

What is cholesterol and how can it be lowered?

PantherMedia

Breakfast

Cholesterol, being a fatty substance, is often portrayed in a negative light, mainly due to its association with heart disease. Nevertheless, it is an indispensable part of our body, performing a number of key functions. The dilemma of modern medicine is therefore not only to combat hypercholesterolaemia, but also to educate patients on how to properly manage blood lipid levels.

Ad:

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is an organic chemical compound belonging to the lipids. It is synthesised in the liver, but is also supplied from food. There are different types of cholesterol, where each plays different roles in the body. The most commonly heard of are two types: low-density lipoproteins (LDL), often referred to as 'bad cholesterol', and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), known as 'good cholesterol'.

The role of cholesterol in the body

Cholesterol is a fundamental component of cell membranes, playing a vital role in maintaining their stability and fluidity. It is also a precursor to many essential substances such as steroid hormones, including cortisol, sex hormones and vitamin D. In addition, cholesterol is essential for the production of bile acids, which are crucial for the digestion and absorption of fats.

Causes of high cholesterol

High cholesterol, usually does not become apparent for many years, which is the reason for its late detection. It can be the result of a genetic predisposition, but also of an abnormal lifestyle, including an inappropriate diet rich in saturated fatty acids, lack of physical activity, being overweight or smoking. Other factors such as diseases such as diabetes, kidney failure or thyroid disorders can also be important.

Cholesterol measurement

Cholesterol levels are assessed by a lipid profile test, which should be performed as part of routine check-ups, especially in people over 40 or those at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This test includes measurement of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Interpretation of the results should be done by a doctor who takes into account individual risk factors.

How to lower cholesterol?

Lowering cholesterol is a key element in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. This can be achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes and, in some cases, with drug treatment. It is important to monitor blood lipid levels on a regular basis and to tailor treatment to the individual patient's needs.

Diet and cholesterol

Changing dietary habits is a fundamental action in lowering cholesterol. It is recommended to increase the intake of dietary fibre, nowadays in fruit, vegetables and whole-grain cereal products, and to limit products rich in saturated fatty acids and trans-fats. It is also important to consume adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, found in marine fish, among others.

Physical activity

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to lower LDL levels and increase HDL levels in the body. It is recommended that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking or cycling.

Pharmacological treatment

In cases where lifestyle changes are insufficient to lower cholesterol levels, doctors may recommend lipid-lowering drugs. Among the most commonly prescribed are statins, which reduce cholesterol production in the liver. There are also other groups of drugs, such as ezetimibe or fibrates, which can be used depending on the patient's needs and condition.

When to see a doctor?

A visit to the doctor is advisable when abnormalities in cholesterol levels are detected in a check-up. It is also important to consult a specialist if other risk factors for heart disease are present. The specialist can recommend appropriate tests, diet and drug treatment.