Cholesterol levels can be lowered easily if one is to take into account ingredients in each meal. Very high cholesterol levels doctors recommend very strict diets consisting of low-saturated fat, low cholesterol foods and exercise. Surgery and medical treatment are left for the worst cases that cannot be helped by any other intervention.
Cholesterol levels increase as we get older. Other reasons also include obesity and in some unfortunate cases, it is inherited, therefore it is essential that we know what causes low HDL levels and high LDL levels. The recommended cholesterol ratio of LDL to HDL is 3:1, we should be aware of these levels at all times ensuring our HDL levels are higher than our LDL levels and this can be achieved by keeping to a healthy diet, regular exercise and a complete stop to certain bad habits like smoking and drinking excess alcohol.
Cholesterol levels include the numbers that will indicate whether the cholesterol in your body is desirable, borderline, or less desirable and high risk. By knowing these levels, you will become aware of your condition, allowing you to take the necessary measures to reduce the risk of heart disease. If your cholesterol has already reached the high-risk level, you can seek medical attention at once for cholesterol medication.
High cholesterol levels can cause atherosclerosis - plaque deposits in the blood vessel wall. This plaque can build up overtime reducing the blood flow through the arteries and cause inflammation. A tear or burst can occur inside the vessel causing a blood clot to form that can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Smoking - Smoking causes cancer as well as heart disease. Haas and Levin (2006) claim "nicotine damages the vascular lining, increases heart rate, and decreases oxygen delivery, with further carbon monoxide intoxication. Nicotine also increases arterial constriction, which further limits oxygen and nutrient delivery to the cells and tissues. Smoking also increases LDL cholesterol levels" (p. 656). One can stop smoking with help from a doctor, hypnotherapy, or smoking cessation classes available at most clinics and hospitals.
Overweight - Being overweight raises blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributes to insulin resistance (difficulty metabolizing carbohydrates) and causes atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) to mention a few.
Efforts to lower LDL and increase HDL can be lifesaving. One can take control of the contributing causes of heart disease by reducing cholesterol levels with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and proper nutritional supplements. Health and vitality can be a decision away. Consider taking charge and treating life as a priority.
