Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is responsible to carrying cholesterol to the cells. High LDL levels clog up arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, or narrowing of the arteries. Sometimes, chunks of this cholesterol break off and cause blockages, sometimes leading to heart attacks/strokes. This is why it is known as the ‘bad’ cholesterol
Dangers of high cholesterol
When we consume animal products, we also consume a quantity of animal fat. This fat along with cholesterol is transported through lipoproteins by the bloodstream. When LDL (bad cholesterol) levels rise in our bloodstream, it leads to fat deposits in the arteries.
Safe levels for cholesterol
Health authorities have determined that cholesterol levels should be less than 5.5 mmol (millimole) per liter if there are no cardiovascular risk factors, i.e. healthy non-smoking adults with no history of high BP or any heart disease.
High Cholesterol—Symptoms
High cholesterol typically doesn’t manifest symptoms. Because it is silent in nature, most patients don’t even realize they have a cholesterol problem until serious complications, such as a heart attack or stroke, show up.
What to eat and what to avoid for healthy cholesterol levels
Foods that are high in saturated fats are the primary cause of high cholesterol levels. So, it is best to avoid:
- Animal products—especially fatty meat
- Dairy and dairy products—cheese and ice cream come to mind
- Processed meats—salami, ham, sausages, etc.
- Heavily salted snacks, like chips
- Deep-fried foods
- Confectionery items
Medication
Sometimes diet and lifestyle improvements are not enough to normalize cholesterol levels. This could be due to a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol—diet-lifestyle do make a difference but may not be sufficient to bring down cholesterol levels.
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https://www.freedomfromdiabetes.org/blog/post/high-cholesterol-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-ffd/2847
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