High Cholesterol

High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Understanding it is the first step toward prevention.

What is High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the blood. The body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but too much cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Types of Cholesterol:

Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) - "Bad" Cholesterol: Excess LDL can accumulate in the arteries, leading to blockages.
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) - "Good" Cholesterol: Helps remove LDL cholesterol from the blood.
Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that contributes to heart disease when levels are high.

Cholesterol Levels Chart:

Cholesterol Type	Healthy Level (mg/dL)
Total Cholesterol	Less than 200
LDL ("Bad" Cholesterol)	Less than 100
HDL ("Good" Cholesterol)	40 or higher
Triglycerides	Less than 150

Causes & Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to high cholesterol levels, including lifestyle choices and genetics.

1. Lifestyle Factors

Unhealthy diet: Eating too much saturated fat (red meat, full-fat dairy) and trans fats (fried and processed foods).
Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise leads to low HDL (good cholesterol) and higher LDL.
Smoking: Damages blood vessels, making LDL cholesterol more harmful.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Raises triglyceride levels.

2. Medical Conditions

Diabetes: High blood sugar increases LDL and lowers HDL.
Obesity: Excess body fat is linked to high cholesterol.
High blood pressure: Weakens arteries, making cholesterol buildup worse.

3. Genetics & Family History

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH): A genetic condition causing extremely high LDL levels from birth.
Having a parent or sibling with high cholesterol increases risk.

Health Risks of High Cholesterol

Unchecked high cholesterol can lead to serious complications over time.

1. Heart Disease & Stroke

Excess cholesterol narrows arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart and brain, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

2. Atherosclerosis (Plaque Buildup in Arteries)

LDL cholesterol hardens and forms plaques, making arteries stiff and less flexible.

3. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Restricted blood flow to the legs and arms causes pain and increases risk of infection.

How to Lower Cholesterol

Managing cholesterol involves dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and medications when necessary.

1. Heart-Healthy Diet

Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, oats).
Eat healthy fats (olive oil, avocados, nuts, fatty fish).
Avoid trans fats and reduce saturated fats.

2. Regular Physical Activity

Aim for 30-60 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
Include aerobic exercises (walking, jogging, swimming).

3. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol

Smoking lowers HDL (good cholesterol).
Excess alcohol increases triglycerides.

4. Medications for High Cholesterol

Statins: Lower LDL and reduce heart disease risk.
Niacin: Boosts HDL and lowers LDL.
PCSK9 Inhibitors: Newer drugs for high-risk individuals.

Note: Medication is only prescribed if lifestyle changes are insufficient.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing high cholesterol starts with consistent healthy habits.

Have regular cholesterol screenings.
Maintain a healthy diet and weight.
Exercise regularly and avoid smoking.
Monitor blood pressure and diabetes.