She Strengthens

The Elusive Truth About Cholesterol

Cholesterol is often misunderstood, but it’s essential to understand its role in our bodies. It’s a yellowish-white, waxy substance present in every cell, and it’s crucial for our cells and organs to function properly. Cholesterol also plays a significant role in hormone, vitamin, and digestive fluid production.

The Two Faces of Cholesterol

There are two types of cholesterol: HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and LDL (the “bad” cholesterol). HDL carries excess cholesterol and other unhealthy substances to the liver, where they’re broken down and removed from the body. LDL, on the other hand, can build up in the arteries, leading to serious health issues.

The Silent Threat

High cholesterol is often asymptomatic, making it difficult to detect without regular blood tests. If left untreated, it can lead to complications like heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease.

Recognizing the Signs

Some people may exhibit physical symptoms, such as cholesterol deposits under the skin (xanthelasma) or on the eyelids (xanthomas). However, these symptoms are rare and often don’t affect vision or blinking.

Complications of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Coronary artery disease and heart attacks: Cholesterol buildup in the arteries can block blood flow, causing chest pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
• Peripheral artery disease: Cholesterol accumulation can prevent blood from reaching the kidneys, stomach, and limbs, leading to symptoms like tiredness, pain, and changes in skin appearance.
• Stroke: Cholesterol buildup can stop blood from reaching the brain, causing sudden symptoms like loss of feeling, difficulty speaking, and vision problems.

Diagnosing High Cholesterol

The only way to diagnose high cholesterol is through a simple blood test. Your doctor will look at your HDL, LDL, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels to determine your risk profile.

The Ideal Numbers

Aim for:

• HDL: greater than 60 mg/dL
• LDL: under 100 mg/dL
• Triglycerides: under 150 mg/dL
• Total cholesterol: 200 or less mg/dL
• Cholesterol ratio: 5 or less

Why Is My Cholesterol So High?

High cholesterol can be caused by lifestyle factors, family history, and medical conditions. The seven deadly sins of high cholesterol include:

• Excessive drinking
• Smoking
• Inactivity
• Insufficient sleep
• Too much stress
• A diet high in saturated fat
• A diet high in trans fat

Managing Cholesterol Levels

Prevention is key! Make lifestyle changes to curb risk factors, such as:

• Eating fiber-rich foods and unsaturated fats
• Cutting back on alcohol and foods high in sugar, salt, trans fats, and saturated fats
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking

Treating High Cholesterol

Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may recommend medication or lifestyle changes. Exercise can increase HDL levels and lower triglycerides, while lipid-lowering therapy can reduce LDL cholesterol.

The Bottom Line

Cholesterol affects every cell, organ, and biological process in our bodies. While it’s essential for our health, too much of the wrong kind can lead to serious health issues. Stay informed, get regular blood tests, and make healthy lifestyle choices to keep your cholesterol levels in check.