What is Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fat-like substance, found in the bloodstream and also in bodily organs and nerve fibers. Most cholesterol in the body is made by the liver from a wide variety of foods, but especially from saturated fats, such as those found in animal products. A diet high in saturated fat content, heredity, and various metabolic conditions such as type II diabetes influence an individual’s level of cholesterol.
Symptoms of High Cholesterol:
One tricky thing about high cholesterol is that it rarely causes any noticeable symptoms. The only way to detect high cholesterol is through a blood test. This is why it is imperative to have regular health checkups, especially as one gets older.
Since the diagnosis of hypercholesterolemia is based on laboratory findings, it is clear that it will be quite difficult to detect without regular screening tests. That is why it has become more vital for everyone to get regular medical checkups, especially among adults.
Why Is High Cholesterol Dangerous?
Cholesterol plays a significant role in cardiovascular health, and it exists in two primary forms: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often referred to as “good” cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly called “bad” cholesterol. Research indicates that higher levels of HDL and lower levels of LDL are associated with a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke.
Elevated LDL cholesterol contributes to the buildup of plaque in arteries, which can lead to atherosclerosis and increase the likelihood of cardiovascular events. However, individuals can improve their LDL levels through lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, and, when necessary, using prescribed medications. Maintaining a favorable balance between HDL and LDL cholesterol is essential for reducing long-term cardiovascular risks.
What to Expect from the Diet։
The Step One diet has demonstrated significant benefits for individuals with high cholesterol levels. Many patients can expect to reduce their LDL cholesterol by 10 to 15 percent. Greater reductions may be achieved by incorporating soluble fiber sources, such as oat bran cereal or muffins, into their diet. However, excessive intake of soluble fiber is discouraged, as it adds unnecessary calories and does not provide additional health benefits. Soluble fiber itself does not possess extraordinary properties but rather enhances the effectiveness of a low-fat, low-cholesterol dietary plan.
Patients transitioning from a high-fat diet to a strict cholesterol-lowering regimen may experience reductions in blood cholesterol exceeding 30 percent. Nonetheless, a more typical and realistic outcome for most individuals is a decrease of 10 to 15 percent.
Factors that can contribute to high
cholesterol levels include:
- Eating foods high in fats, especially saturated and trans fats
- Having a parent with high cholesterol
- Bring obese, related to diet and exercise
- Having diabetes
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