Cholesterol

It is essentially a form of fat which is a structural component of cell membranes. Most of the blood cholesterol is produced in the liver (85%) and a much smaller part of it comes from the diet (15%). Cholesterol, or cholesterol, binds to proteins to circulate in the blood, creating certain molecules called lipoproteins.

Symptoms

Elevated cholesterol levels significantly increase cardiovascular risk. Specifically, they increase the chances of atherosclerosis, atherosclerotic plaque and vascular thrombosis, coronary heart disease, angina, heart attack, peripheral arterial disease and stroke.

Causes

The causes of high cholesterol are heterogeneous, however the main cause of high cholesterol levels is lifestyle. Although diet plays a very important role, the genes inherited from parents seem to be just as important. Causes that lead to rising prices are: Unhealthy lifestyle Poor diet. Increased consumption of saturated and trans fats Lack of physical activity. Increased sedentary life. Smoking Familial hypercholesterolemia. Mutation of genes that lead to elevated cholesterol levels even from an early age. Pathological conditions. Some conditions can lead to high cholesterol levels, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, HIV, hypothyroidism, obesity and polycystic ovary syndromes. Medication

Treatment

The treatment of hypercholesterolemia is multifaceted, as serum cholesterol levels are affected by many different factors.

Cholesterol and diet

Food cholesterol has very little(15%) effect on serum cholesterol levels. There is a misconception that foods high in cholesterol (eggs, meat, seafood, shellfish and fish) are prohibited, but this is not the case and only a partial restriction of their consumption is recommended. Diet plays a very important role in lowering cholesterol. As a general directive, the adoption of theMediterranean diet or the DASH diet is recommended, while the following are recommended:

Reduce the intake of saturated and trans fats
Increase omega 3 fatty acid intake
Increase fiber intake (at least 25g / day)
Increase intake of fruits and vegetables
Limitation of simple and refined carbohydrates (white cereals, refined cereals, sugar, etc.)

Lifestyle

Healthy weight. For those who are overweight or obese, gaining a healthy body weight is recommended. Weight loss of 3-5% can significantly reduce serum cholesterol, while weight loss of 5-10% within 6 months is recommended.
Natural activity. Increasing physical activity can significantly improve LDL cholesterol and serum triglyceride levels, as well as increase HDL cholesterol levels.
Stop smoking. Smoking significantly reduces the levels of good HDL cholesterol, while increasing the risk of thrombosis and atherosclerosis.