How to keep your LDL cholesterol under control?

How to keep your LDL cholesterol under control? – GorjOnline

LDL cholesterol is a crucial factor for cardiovascular health. Find out more about the different factors that can influence your LDL cholesterol level, as well as the diet and lifestyle that can help keep it under control!

Factors that influence the level of LDL cholesterol

LDL cholesterol, often called “bad” cholesterol, can be influenced by a number of factors, many of which are related to lifestyle and eating habits. Foods high in saturated and trans fats can raise LDL cholesterol levels. These include red meat, full-fat dairy products, fried or processed foods. For example, a diet high in saturated fat can raise LDL cholesterol levels by up to 20%. Excessive consumption of sugar and alcohol can also contribute to elevated LDL levels.

Physical activity also plays an important role in maintaining a healthy cholesterol level. Lack of exercise can lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol and a decrease in HDL cholesterol, also known as “good cholesterol”. Studies show that a regular exercise program can help raise HDL levels and lower LDL levels.

Body weight is another factor that can influence cholesterol levels. Being overweight can raise your LDL cholesterol levels. A 10% weight loss can lower LDL levels by up to 15%.

Smoking is also a risk factor for high cholesterol. Smoking can lead to increased LDL levels and decreased HDL levels. Moreover, it can damage the walls of blood vessels, making them more susceptible to the formation of cholesterol deposits. Learn more about what cholesterol is and how the two known types of cholesterol differ, to better understand their dynamics in the body!

Genetics can also play a role in high cholesterol. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol, caused by a condition called familial hypercholesterolemia. If one or both parents have this disease, it is possible to pass it on to the children.

Diet and lifestyle to keep LDL cholesterol under control

A healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet are essential to keep your LDL cholesterol levels under control. Eating high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Also, lean proteins like chicken and fish are a healthier option than red meat. It is also important to reduce the intake of saturated and trans fats, which can raise LDL cholesterol levels.

Regular physical activity is another important factor in keeping LDL cholesterol under control. Cardiovascular exercise such as walking, running or cycling can help lower your LDL cholesterol levels.

As for unhealthy habits, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can raise LDL cholesterol levels. It is recommended that you limit your alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. As for smoking, quitting the habit is the healthiest choice, as smoking can lower your HDL (good) cholesterol and increase your risk of heart disease.

Maintaining a healthy weight is also essential for controlling LDL cholesterol. Overweight and obesity can raise LDL cholesterol levels. Therefore, a balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight.

Medication and supplements helpful in managing LDL cholesterol

Medicines doctors prescribe to lower LDL cholesterol include statins, resins, ezetimibe, and PCSK9 inhibitors. Statins work by reducing the production of cholesterol in the liver, and the resins bind to bile acids in the intestine, preventing cholesterol from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. Ezetimibe inhibits the absorption of cholesterol in the gut, while PCSK9 inhibitors block a protein in the liver, allowing more efficient removal of LDL from the blood. All of these drugs have proven effectiveness in reducing LDL, but they can also have side effects, including muscle pain, increased blood sugar, or liver problems.

Some natural supplements may also be helpful in lowering LDL. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseed, can lower cholesterol levels. Niacin, a form of vitamin B3, can help raise HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels and lower LDL. Dietary fibers such as psyllium and glucomannan can reduce cholesterol absorption, while policosanol and Coenzyme Q10 can have favorable effects on the lipid profile. However, these supplements can interact with medications and have contraindications, so it is essential to consult a specialist.

The pharmacist plays a critical role in managing LDL cholesterol. He can advise on the most suitable treatment and prevent unwanted interactions between different drugs and supplements. For example, niacin can potentiate the side effects of statins, while dietary fiber can reduce the absorption of some drugs.

Some foods and drinks can influence the effectiveness of the treatment. For example, grapefruit juice can increase the level of statins in the blood, increasing the risk of side effects. Alcohol can increase the level of niacin in the blood, potentiating its adverse effects. Also, high consumption of fish or omega-3 supplements may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications.

There are several factors that influence LDL cholesterol levels, including diet and lifestyle. Medications and dietary supplements are also important in effectively managing LDL cholesterol. It’s vital to be proactive in monitoring and managing your cholesterol levels to prevent long-term health complications, and working closely with your doctor is essential!

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