Cholesterol is a fatty protein found in your blood, characterized by types: LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein), VLDL (Very Low-Density Lipoprotein) and HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein). Most people only think of it as the plaque that causes cardiac and arterial complications. This is true for LDL and VLDL cholesterols. However, HDL cholesterol builds cells, produces vitamin D and aids with food digestion. It even helps transport “bad” cholesterol back to the liver to be removed from the body, thus maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. HDL is quite essential for good health. Think of HDL as the Hero Lipoprotein.
Star City Medical offers an overview of cholesterol and what effects it can have on your body.
Where Does Cholesterol Come From?
The body produces HDL, but you can also find it in
- Eggs
- Avocados
- Fish
Contrarily, LDLs and VLDLs are found in foods that are high in saturated or trans fats, including
- Red meat
- Baked sweets
- Highly processed foods
- Deep-fried or greasy foods
Regular intake of these foods increases “bad” cholesterols in the blood.
Effects of High Cholesterol
Over time, these fats begin to stick together and build walls called plaque that block vital blood vessels and arteries, causing:
- Chest pains
- Blood clots
- Heart disease
- Heart attack
- Stroke
These conditions may result in death. In less severe cases, high levels make the body feel sluggish and lethargic, decreasing the desire to perform the exercise needed to move those harmful fats out of the body. High cholesterol can also be a genetic condition.
Treatment
The first step in treatment is to see your doctor and have your levels tested. Lifestyle changes can alleviate some negative symptoms. These changes include:
- Low-fat diet
- Regular, consistent moderate exercise
- Plenty of rest
- Avoiding stress
Weight loss is another beneficial effect of these changes. Traditional medicine may also be prescribed. In genetically predisposed cases, Lipoprotein Apheresis is an option. After a treatment plan has been developed, your doctor will need to perform periodic blood-cholesterol testing to ensure your goal levels are reached and maintained.
Schedule an appointment at Star City Medical to have your cholesterol levels tested. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about any health concerns you may have.