Altered Cholesterol Levels (Dyslipidemia)
Altered cholesterol levels, also known as dyslipidemia, are characterized by abnormal lipid (fat) levels in the blood. Cholesterol is a vital substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods. It's essential for various bodily functions, but imbalances can lead to severe health issues, primarily cardiovascular diseases.
Types of Cholesterol
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – "Bad" Cholesterol:
Elevated LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup... moreAltered Cholesterol Levels (Dyslipidemia)
Altered cholesterol levels, also known as dyslipidemia, are characterized by abnormal lipid (fat) levels in the blood. Cholesterol is a vital substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods. It's essential for various bodily functions, but imbalances can lead to severe health issues, primarily cardiovascular diseases.
Types of Cholesterol
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – "Bad" Cholesterol:
Elevated LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – "Good" Cholesterol:
HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. Low HDL levels can also contribute to cardiovascular problems.
Symptoms
High cholesterol itself usually doesn't present symptoms. However, it can lead to serious cardiovascular issues over time, such as:
Chest pain or angina
Shortness of breath
Fatigue
Numbness or coldness in extremities
Yellowish, fatty bumps on the skin (xanthomas)
These symptoms often appear only after significant damage has occurred, highlighting the importance of regular check-ups with a cholesterol specialist or cardiologist.
Causes
Altered cholesterol levels can arise from:
Genetic Predisposition: Inherited genes can cause abnormal cholesterol production or processing.
Poor Diet: High intake of saturated and trans fats can raise LDL cholesterol.
Lack of Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps improve HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol.
Obesity: Excess weight can negatively affect cholesterol levels.
Smoking: Lowers HDL cholesterol and damages blood vessels.
Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels increase with age; men typically have higher levels until women reach menopause.
Certain Medical Conditions: Diseases like diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease can affect cholesterol levels.
Medications: Some drugs, including certain birth control pills and diuretics, can alter cholesterol levels.
Foods to Avoid
To manage cholesterol levels, limit or avoid:
Foods High in Saturated Fats: Fatty meats, full-fat dairy products.
Trans Fats: Found in some processed and fried foods.
Foods High in Dietary Cholesterol: Organ meats, egg yolks.
Refined Carbohydrates and Sugary Foods.
Excessive Alcohol.
Habits to Follow and Avoid
Habits to Follow:
Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Consistent Sleep Schedule.
Stress Management: Techniques like meditation or yoga.
Home Cooking: Control ingredients and avoid processed foods.
Reading Food Labels: Make informed dietary choices.
Habits to Avoid:
Smoking or Using Tobacco Products.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption.
Sedentary Lifestyle.
Skipping Meals: Can lead to overeating later.
Ignoring Prescribed Medications.
How to Stay Safe
To manage and protect yourself from the dangers of altered cholesterol levels:
Regular Check-Ups: Schedule annual lipid profile tests.
Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Exercise Regularly.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Weight loss can improve cholesterol levels.
Quit Smoking: Seek support to quit if necessary.
Manage Stress.
Take Prescribed Medications: Follow your doctor's advice.
Good and Bad Foods for Cholesterol
Good Foods:
Oats and Whole Grains.
Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines.
Nuts and Seeds.
Olive Oil and Avocados.
Fruits and Vegetables: Especially those high in soluble fiber.
Lean Proteins: Skinless poultry, legumes.
Bad Foods:
Fatty Cuts of Red Meat.
Full-Fat Dairy Products.
Fried Foods.
Processed Snacks and Baked Goods.
Sugary Beverages.
Foods High in Trans Fats.
Important Facts
Prevalence: High cholesterol affects about 1 in 3 adults globally.
Improvements: Cholesterol levels can improve within weeks of dietary changes.
Age: Even young adults can have high cholesterol.
Risks: High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Genetics: Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic condition affecting cholesterol levels.
External Factors: Stress and certain medications can impact cholesterol levels.
Exercise Benefits: Can help raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
If you haven’t had your cholesterol checked recently or have concerns about your levels, don’t wait. Contact Dr. Archana Rathi to schedule an appointment with one of our top cardiologists in Indore or an experienced cholesterol doctor specialist. We offer comprehensive care, advanced testing, and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve optimal cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Call +91 78985-43525 or visit our website to book your consultation. Investing in your cholesterol health today can prevent serious complications in the future.
Contact Details
25, Indo Tower, Khajrana Main Road , Anand Bazar, Near Kids Advanced Academy Indore
drarchanarathi78@gmail.com
+91 78985-43525
8:00am to 8:00pm
Monday - Saturday
