High cholesterol, also known as hypercholesterolaemia, is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. Despite its deadly consequences, many people are unaware they have high cholesterol, often due to the lack of noticeable symptoms. According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), nearly half of UK adults have cholesterol levels above national guidelines, yet only 6% know how often to get their cholesterol checked.
GP Dr Sarah Jarvis warns that two out of every five people live with raised cholesterol without realizing it, and many don’t understand the importance of cholesterol in maintaining heart health. High cholesterol can lead to clogged arteries, heart attacks, and strokes, but its symptoms are often absent until a serious health issue arises.
Diet plays a crucial role in changing high cholesterol levels, and simple swaps can make a big difference. Experts recommend reducing saturated fats, increasing unsaturated fats, and eating more wholegrain foods, fruits, and vegetables. Choosing healthy sources of protein like low-fat dairy and lean meats can also help lower cholesterol levels.
Heart UK recommends aiming for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily, and limiting processed foods high in saturated fat. Foods fortified with sterols and stanols can aid in decreasing cholesterol levels.
Understanding that there are two main types of cholesterol is essential: good (HDL) cholesterol helps remove bad (non-HDL) cholesterol from the blood, while non-HDL cholesterol builds up inside blood vessel walls, increasing heart attack risk. Cholesterol is produced naturally in the liver and can be influenced by lifestyle factors such as age, gender, and family history.
Making simple changes to lifestyle, including exercise and smoking cessation, can help manage high cholesterol levels. Exercise can raise HDL cholesterol levels and lower non-HDL cholesterol, while statins can reduce non-HDL cholesterol by 30-50%. By adopting healthy habits and understanding the risks of high cholesterol, individuals can significantly improve their heart health and reduce the risk of life-threatening conditions.
Source: https://www.getsurrey.co.uk/news/health/doctor-says-high-cholesterol-can-30509705