Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. It plays an important role in the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that help with digestion.

While cholesterol is essential for the functioning of our body, an excessive amount of it can be harmful. The two primary types of cholesterol are LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein), which have different effects on the body.

LDL Cholesterol

LDL, also known as “bad cholesterol,” is the type that can cause plaque buildup in the walls of our arteries. This buildup, called atherosclerosis, can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other complications.

Some of the factors that contribute to high LDL levels are a diet rich in saturated and trans fats, lack of physical activity, smoking, and certain medical conditions like diabetes and hypothyroidism.

When the level of LDL cholesterol is too high, it can lead to the narrowing of the arteries and reduced blood flow to the organs. If a clot forms in an artery that has already been narrowed by plaque, it can cause a heart attack or stroke.

High LDL levels are also associated with peripheral artery disease, which affects the blood vessels outside the heart and brain.

HDL Cholesterol

HDL, also known as “good cholesterol,” helps to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it to the liver for elimination.

High levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease, while low levels are associated with a higher risk. Some of the factors that can raise HDL levels are regular exercise, a healthy diet, and not smoking.

HDL also has several other protective functions, such as reducing inflammation, preventing blood clots, and improving the function of the inner lining of the blood vessels.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood that is used for energy. High levels of triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, especially when combined with low HDL levels.

Factors that can raise triglyceride levels include a diet high in carbohydrates, sugary drinks, obesity, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption.

High triglyceride levels are also associated with several other conditions, such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and pancreatitis.

Treatment of high triglycerides often involves lifestyle changes, such as weight loss, regular exercise, and dietary modifications.

Total Cholesterol

Total cholesterol is the sum of LDL, HDL, and VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. VLDL is similar to LDL, but it contains more triglycerides and less cholesterol.

While having high total cholesterol is not necessarily a problem, a high LDL level and low HDL level can increase the risk of heart disease.

The American Heart Association recommends that adults have their cholesterol checked every four to six years, starting at age 20.

People with a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, or other risk factors should have their cholesterol checked more frequently.

Causes of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol can be caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Some people inherit genes that cause them to have high cholesterol, even if they follow a healthy lifestyle.

However, most cases of high cholesterol are due to lifestyle factors that can be modified.

Some of the lifestyle factors that can raise cholesterol levels include:.

Diet high in saturated and trans fats
Inactivity
Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
Excess weight and obesity
Age and gender (men over 45 and women over 55 are at higher risk)
Medical conditions like hypothyroidism and diabetes

Some medications can also raise cholesterol levels, such as corticosteroids, progestins, and certain antipsychotics.

Treatment for High Cholesterol

The first line of treatment for high cholesterol is lifestyle changes, such as:.

Eating a heart-healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats
Engaging in regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week)
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight
Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke

For people with very high levels of LDL cholesterol or other risk factors for heart disease, medications may also be necessary. Some of the medications used to treat high cholesterol include:.

Statins, which block the liver from producing cholesterol
Ezetimibe, which lowers the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine
Bile acid sequestrants, which bind to cholesterol in the digestive tract and prevent it from being absorbed
PCSK9 inhibitors, which help the liver remove more LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream

Cholesterol-lowering medications are usually prescribed by a healthcare provider and require regular monitoring to ensure they are effective and safe.

Conclusion

Cholesterol is an essential substance for our body, but high levels of LDL or triglycerides can increase the risk of heart disease.

Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits such as a balanced diet, exercise, and not smoking can help to maintain healthy levels of cholesterol. In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage high cholesterol levels. Regular cholesterol screening is an essential part of maintaining good heart health.