Are you struggling with high cholesterol? Would you like to lower it? First, you should know what causes high cholesterol. We’ll cover it today.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a lipid produced in the liver and partly supplied with food. It plays an important role in our body, it is used to build cell membranes. It is thanks to him that vitamin D3 is synthesized from the sun. Cholesterol also contributes to the production of some hormones, supports fat digestion. However, its inadequate level can be dangerous – it contributes to atherosclerosis and can lead to coronary heart disease or stroke. Regularly check your lipid profile, i.e. check your triglyceride levels and two cholesterol fractions – HDL and LDL. The latter is commonly called bad cholesterol.
Cholesterol – what is the norm?
We should check our blood cholesterol levels every year during a routine blood test. If we are at risk, the test is repeated more often – depending on the doctor’s decision. It is actually painless and quick – all you need to do is draw blood from a vein. You should report to the laboratory on an empty stomach, 12-14 hours after the last meal – the most convenient morning. The test will determine the content of several substances in the blood – and although they are hidden under difficult abbreviations, it is worth knowing something about them.
What is total blood cholesterol?
Total blood cholesterol (TC) is below 200 mg / dL 5.2 mmol / L). This is a general standard. However, individual targets will be set by your doctor based on your medical history and individual cardiovascular risk assessment.
What are the causes of too high cholesterol?
- Too much weight
Overweight can increase triglycerides and reduce HDL, or “good cholesterol.” Higher levels of “good” cholesterol not only translate into health, but also help maintain mental clarity and increase concentration. Research confirms that losing even a small amount of unnecessary kilograms can lower LDL levels.
- Gender and age
Studies show that cholesterol levels naturally increase after the age of thirty. Gender also matters. In pre-menopausal women, levels are usually lower than in men of the same age. However, after menopause, LDL levels tend to rise. In addition, for men the biggest trouble begins after the age of fifty.
- Genetic predispositions
If you have too high cholesterol, talk to loved ones. Family history in this case is very important – it may turn out that your ancestors suffered from hypercholesterolemia, i.e. a lipid disorder that promotes the development of cardiovascular diseases. The risk of having a heart attack increases.
- No physical activity
Regular physical activity is a good way to lower your cholesterol. Movement stimulates enzymes in the body that help transfer LDL from the blood and walls of blood vessels to the liver. There, cholesterol is converted into bile. The higher the intensity of the exercises, the better.
