Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance that is found in all cells in our body. Although it is essential for the production of hormones, Vitamin D, and bile acids, high levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a lipid (fat) that is produced by our liver and is needed for the production of cell membranes, Vitamin D, and hormones. Our body needs a certain amount of cholesterol, but too much can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Cholesterol is carried in our bloodstream by two types of proteins:.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – known as “bad” cholesterol, as it can build up in arteries, causing blockages and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) – known as “good” cholesterol, as it helps to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver for processing.

What Causes High Cholesterol?

There are several factors that can contribute to high cholesterol levels, including:.

Diet – consuming foods that are high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can increase LDL cholesterol levels.
Physical inactivity – lack of exercise can contribute to unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Obesity – carrying excess weight can increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL cholesterol levels.
Smoking – smoking can damage the walls of the arteries and increase LDL cholesterol levels.
Family history – genetics can play a role in high cholesterol levels, as some people may have a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol levels.

How is High Cholesterol Diagnosed?

High cholesterol often has no symptoms, so it is important to get regular cholesterol screenings as part of a routine health check-up.

A blood test is used to measure cholesterol levels, and it is recommended that adults have their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years.

The blood test measures the levels of HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. The results are then used to calculate the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol, which is a predictor of heart disease risk.

How is High Cholesterol Treated?

There are several lifestyle changes that can help to lower high cholesterol levels, including:.

Healthy diet – consume a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low in saturated and trans fats.
Exercise – aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day.
Quit smoking – if you smoke, try to quit smoking.
Weight management – aim for a healthy weight to lower cholesterol levels.

In some cases, medication may also be prescribed to lower high cholesterol levels. There are several types of cholesterol-lowering medication, including:.

Statins – the most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medication, which works by blocking the enzyme that the liver uses to produce cholesterol
Bile acid sequestrants – work by binding with bile in the intestines, preventing its reabsorption, and increasing the excretion of cholesterol.
Fibrates – work by lowering triglycerides and increasing HDL cholesterol levels.

Preventing High Cholesterol

The best way to prevent high cholesterol levels is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This includes:.

Eating a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low in saturated and trans fats.
Engaging in regular physical activity – aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day.
Avoiding tobacco products – smoking can damage the walls of the arteries and increase LDL cholesterol levels.
Maintaining a healthy weight- carrying excess weight can increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

High cholesterol is a common health problem that can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is important to get regular cholesterol screenings to monitor your cholesterol levels and adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent high cholesterol.