Your fingers and nails can reveal a lot of information about your health.

You might have heard about how the color of your nails can indicate some health problems, but have you ever thought about the connection between your nails and your cholesterol levels? This article will shed some light on the topic, explaining how your nails can reveal high cholesterol levels and what you can do about it.

What is cholesterol?

Before we delve into the connection between your nails and cholesterol, let’s first understand what cholesterol is. Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your body’s cells.

While it’s necessary for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and certain digestive enzymes, an excessive amount of cholesterol can lead to health problems.

Cholesterol travels through your bloodstream in the form of lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoproteins: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

LDL is considered ‘bad’ cholesterol because it can accumulate in your arteries, leading to heart disease and stroke. On the other hand, HDL is considered ‘good’ cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from your blood.

How can your nails indicate high cholesterol levels?

Now, you might be wondering how your nails can indicate high cholesterol levels.

Well, your nails can reveal a condition known as ‘nail clubbing,’ which is associated with various health problems, including heart and lung disease, cirrhosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Nail clubbing is a condition in which the tips of your fingers enlarge and the nails curve downward, making them look like the round side of an upside-down spoon.

While nail clubbing can be hereditary, it can also be a sign of an underlying health condition, including high cholesterol levels. Medical researchers have found a significant association between nail clubbing and elevated levels of LDL cholesterol.

One study published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care found that 68.6% of patients with nail clubbing had high LDL cholesterol levels.

Other nail changes that can indicate high cholesterol levels

Aside from nail clubbing, there are other changes in your nails that can point to high cholesterol levels. Here are some nail changes to watch out for:.

1. Yellow nails

Yellow nails could indicate a fungal infection or jaundice, which is commonly associated with liver disease. It can also be a sign of smoking or a vitamin deficiency.

Yellow nails caused by smoking can also be an indication of poor blood circulation, which can contribute to high cholesterol levels.

2. White spots

Contrary to popular belief, white spots on your nails are not always a sign of calcium deficiency. In fact, they can indicate liver problems or high cholesterol levels. However, they can also be caused by minor injuries to your nails.

3. Vertical ridges

Vertical ridges on your nails occur naturally as you age, but if they’re accompanied by other symptoms, such as nail discoloration or changes in shape, they could indicate an underlying condition, including high cholesterol levels and nutrient deficiencies.

4. Horizontal grooves

Horizontal grooves, also known as Beau’s lines, are depressions that run across your nails. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, infection, and malnutrition. In some cases, they can also indicate high cholesterol levels.

What should you do if you notice nail changes?

If you notice any changes in your nails, such as discoloration, changes in shape, or nail clubbing, it’s best to consult your doctor right away. They can perform tests to determine the cause of the changes and recommend appropriate treatments.

If your doctor suspects high cholesterol levels, they may suggest medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both to manage your condition.

How to manage high cholesterol levels

If your doctor detects high cholesterol levels, they may recommend the following strategies to help manage your condition:.

1. Diet changes

One of the most effective ways to lower your cholesterol levels is to make dietary changes. A diet that’s high in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower LDL cholesterol levels.

Limiting your intake of saturated and trans fats, processed foods, and high-sugar foods can also help reduce cholesterol levels.

2. Exercise

Regular exercise can help improve cholesterol levels, as well as decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, most days of the week.

3. Medication

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to manage high cholesterol levels, your doctor may prescribe medication.

The most common medications used to lower cholesterol levels are statins, which work by blocking the production of cholesterol in the liver.

The bottom line

Your nails can reveal a lot about your health, including your cholesterol levels. Nail changes, such as nail clubbing, yellow nails, white spots, and ridges, can indicate an underlying health condition, including high cholesterol levels.

If you notice any changes in your nails, it’s essential to consult your doctor right away to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. By managing your cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes and medication, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.