High cholesterol is a common health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While it’s often talked about in terms of heart health, the truth is that high cholesterol can impact various parts of your body in ways you might not realize. Fortunately, understanding how it affects you and learning how to take control can help you lead a healthier, more confident life.
Your blood contains a fatty material called cholesterol. It is necessary for the development of healthy cells, but too much of it can be harmful. There are two forms of cholesterol: HDL (high-density lipoprotein), sometimes called “good” cholesterol, and LDL (low-density lipoprotein), sometimes called “bad” cholesterol. Atherosclerosis is a disorder where LDL cholesterol accumulates in the walls of your blood vessels, forming plaque that causes the arteries to narrow and stiffen. Serious health problems such peripheral artery disease, heart disease, and stroke may result from this.
High levels of LDL cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in your arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart. Over time, this can lead to coronary artery disease (CAD), where the heart’s blood supply is reduced. If a blood clot forms around the plaque, it can block blood flow, potentially resulting in a heart attack. People with high cholesterol are at a significantly higher risk of developing heart disease.
Just as high cholesterol can clog arteries in the heart, it can also block blood flow to the brain. A stroke happens when the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygenated blood, which can cause brain cells to die. High cholesterol plays a major role in the formation of blood clots, which is one of the leading causes of stroke.
High cholesterol can also affect the arteries in your legs and arms, leading to peripheral artery disease. This condition causes narrowing of the arteries, reducing blood flow to your limbs. Symptoms of PAD include pain when walking, numbness, and even ulcers on the legs. Left untreated, PAD can lead to severe complications, including gangrene and amputation in extreme cases.
The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from your blood. When plaque buildup from high cholesterol blocks blood vessels leading to the kidneys, it can reduce their ability to function properly. Over time, this can lead to kidney damage and increase the risk of kidney disease.
High cholesterol can also influence your body’s ability to use insulin effectively. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body doesn’t respond well to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels and, eventually, type 2 diabetes. This relationship is why people with high cholesterol are at a higher risk of developing diabetes.
The good news is that high cholesterol is manageable with the right lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Here are a few practical steps to help you take control:
Eating a heart-healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to lower your cholesterol. Focus on foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit your intake of saturated fats, found in red meat, butter, and full-fat dairy products, and avoid trans fats, commonly found in processed foods. Opt for healthy fats, like those found in avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish.
Regular physical activity can help raise your HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol) and lower your LDL cholesterol. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, on most days of the week. Exercise also helps control your weight, which plays a crucial role in managing cholesterol levels.
Carrying excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Losing even a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on your cholesterol and overall health.
Smoking damages your blood vessels and lowers your good cholesterol. By quitting smoking, you’ll not only improve your cholesterol levels but also reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
In some cases, lifestyle changes may not be enough to lower cholesterol. Your primary health care doctor MD may recommend medications, such as statins, to help lower your LDL cholesterol. These medications can be an essential part of managing high cholesterol, especially if you have other risk factors for heart disease.
Managing high cholesterol in Germantown often requires a combination of lifestyle changes and, in many cases, medication. There are various medications available that can target all aspects of cholesterol or focus on one specific component. However, lifestyle changes remain a critical part of treatment. Regular exercise, a low-fat diet, and achieving a healthy weight can significantly improve your cholesterol levels and overall heart health. If you are overweight, working towards a healthy weight is especially important. Before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine, it’s essential to consult with your primary health care doctor MD to ensure you’re taking the right steps for your health. Taking a proactive approach can help you manage high cholesterol effectively and reduce the risk of complications.
