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Cholesterol

Understanding High Cholesterol: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

High cholesterol is a condition where there is an excessive amount of cholesterol in the blood, which can lead to serious health issues such as heart problems and strokes. A GP from Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, Dr. Bhavini Shah, has shared her expertise to help demystify the term. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that our bodies need to function properly, but high levels can cause a build-up in the blood vessels, making it harder for blood to flow.

Cholesterol levels are influenced by a variety of factors, including an unhealthy lifestyle, which can be caused by consuming too much fatty food, lack of exercise, smoking, drinking, and being overweight. Additionally, thyroid issues or some types of medication can also contribute to high cholesterol. Dr. Shah emphasizes that high cholesterol often does not cause symptoms, making it essential to get tested through a blood test, particularly if you are over 40, overweight, or have a family history of cholesterol and heart issues.

A good cholesterol level depends on various factors such as age, health conditions, and risk of heart disease. Healthy adults should have below 5mmol/L of total cholesterol in their blood, above 1.0/mmol/L or above 1.2/mmol/L for women of HDL (good cholesterol), and below 4mmol/L of non-HDL (bad cholesterol).

Managing high cholesterol involves making lifestyle changes, including a healthier diet. The GP recommends cutting down on fatty food, particularly saturated fats found in red meat, sausages, and pies, full-fat dairy products, and fried foods. Instead, opt for unsaturated fats like avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and oily fish like mackerel and salmon. Eating more fish, increasing fibre intake through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans, and avoiding processed foods and cholesterol-rich foods can also help lower levels.

Key Takeaways:

  • High cholesterol is caused by an excessive amount of cholesterol in the blood, which can lead to serious health issues.
  • Cholesterol levels are influenced by factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, thyroid issues, and some types of medication.
  • High cholesterol often does not cause symptoms, making it essential to get tested through a blood test.
  • A good cholesterol level depends on various factors, including age, health conditions, and risk of heart disease.
  • Healthy adults should have below 5mmol/L of total cholesterol in their blood and below 4mmol/L of non-HDL (bad cholesterol).
  • A healthier diet can help manage high cholesterol levels, including cutting down on fatty food and increasing fibre intake.
  • Eating more fish, avoiding processed foods and cholesterol-rich foods, and exercising regularly can also help lower levels.

Statistics:

  • Below 5mmol/L of total cholesterol in the blood is considered a good cholesterol level for healthy adults.
  • Above 1.0/mmol/L or above 1.2/mmol/L for women of HDL (good cholesterol) is considered a good level.
  • Below 4mmol/L of non-HDL (bad cholesterol) is considered a good level.
  • Aiming for at least three hours of exercise per week can help lower cholesterol levels.

Sources:

  • Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, Dr. Bhavini Shah
  • @uktoday_
  • UKToday Newsquest

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