It’s not uncommon to hear about adults struggling with health issues like obesity, high blood pressure, or diabetes. However, there’s another common condition that often goes overlooked: high cholesterol.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of three American adults has high cholesterol levels. This puts them at a higher risk for heart disease, stroke, and other health complications.

Understanding Cholesterol

Before we delve into how high cholesterol can affect the body, let’s take a closer look at what cholesterol actually is. Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance that is made by the liver and also found in certain foods.

Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells and produce hormones, but too much cholesterol can be harmful.

Cholesterol is transported through the bloodstream in two forms: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

LDL is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the arteries, forming plaques that can lead to heart disease and stroke. HDL, on the other hand, is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Causes of High Cholesterol

There are a number of factors that can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Some of these factors include:.

A diet high in saturated and trans fats
Lack of physical activity
Obesity
Smoking
Genetics
Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or an underactive thyroid

If you have a family history of high cholesterol or have any of these risk factors, it’s important to talk to your doctor about getting your cholesterol levels checked regularly.

A simple blood test can determine your cholesterol levels and help identify any potential health concerns.

The Dangers of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is often referred to as a “silent killer” because it doesn’t typically produce any symptoms. This means that many people may not realize they have high cholesterol until it’s too late.

Over time, high cholesterol levels can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can cause a narrowing of the arteries and restrict blood flow to the heart, brain, and other vital organs.

This can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious health complications.

High cholesterol can also contribute to the development of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), a condition in which the arteries in the legs and feet become narrow or blocked, leading to pain, numbness, and poor circulation.

Preventing and Treating High Cholesterol

The good news is that high cholesterol can often be prevented or managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Some steps you can take to lower your cholesterol include:.

Eating a heart-healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats
Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein into your diet
Exercising regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight
Quitting smoking
Taking medication as prescribed by your doctor

If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend medication to help lower your cholesterol levels.

There are a number of different medications available, including statins, bile acid sequestrants, and cholesterol absorption inhibitors.

Conclusion

High cholesterol is a common condition that can have serious health implications if left untreated.

By understanding your risk factors and taking steps to manage your cholesterol levels, you can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health complications.