Beware Of This Silent Killer

Thousands of people have died from health conditions such as stroke and heart attack caused by high cholesterol. Fat deposits in the blood vessels can obstruct the free flow of blood through the arteries. A stroke occurs as a result of reduced blood flow to the brain. Likewise, inadequate supply of oxygen-rich blood to the heart increases the risk of heart attacks.

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Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver. It is essential for the formation of vitamin D, cell membranes, and hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. It also improves metabolism. Though cholesterol is vital for proper functioning of the body, its high levels can be harmful to human health. High blood pressure, smoking, and overweight can increase the risk of high cholesterol levels. However, you may also inherit the condition.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water. Consequently, it travels around the body attached to proteins (lipoproteins) through the bloodstream. There are two types of cholesterol:

1. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL). This type of lipoprotein is regarded as bad cholesterol leads to the deposition of fatty substances on the walls of the arteries. Such condition narrows and hardens the blood vessels, interfering with the normal flow of blood.
2. High-density lipoproteins (HDL). It is also known as the good cholesterol. The HDL collects excess cholesterol or the LDL and returns it to the liver for removal.
   
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   High levels of LDL cholesterol and low levels of HDL cholesterol can result to damages in the brain and heart. Such conditions may be fatal. Besides your genetic makeup and high blood pressure, the following factors can contribute to the buildup of cholesterol on the walls of arteries.
   a. Unhealthy diet
   Consumption of foods high in saturated fats can increase your cholesterol levels. Avoid or take foods like red meat, full-fat dairy products and commercially baked crackers and cookies in moderation.
   b. Inactivity
   Lack of exercise increases the chances of developing high cholesterol. Exercises can improve the HDL cholesterol in your body. They can also reduce the harmful effects of lower-density lipoproteins.
   c. Obesity
   
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   Being overweight increases your risk of high cholesterol. Check your cholesterol level frequently if you have a BMI (body weight index) of 30 and above.
   d. Diabetes.
   High levels of sugar in your blood can damage the lining of your blood vessels. It can also lower the HDL and increase the LDL cholesterol in your bloodstream.
   e. Smoking
   Besides lowering your HDL cholesterol level, smoking can also damage the walls of your arteries.

You can only detect high cholesterol through a blood test since the condition doesn’t show symptoms. Though the recommendations of the age for the initial cholesterol test vary, you need to recheck the levels every four to six years. Your doctor may suggest frequent tests if you have factors that can put you at risk of developing high cholesterol.

Despite the absence of symptoms, this condition may lead to other health problems such as chest pain, heart attack, and stroke. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can help prevent or lower high cholesterol. Besides, the following tips can be helpful.

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i. Consume less animal fat. Moderate intake of good fats will be helpful.
ii. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Include whole grains in your diet and avoid high salt consumption.
iii. Increase your level of physical activity. Exercise your body regularly.
iv. Maintain a healthy weight.
v. Stop smoking and take alcohol in moderation.
High cholesterol is a silent killer. However, the condition can be prevented and treated. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and don’t forget to do a blood test to check your cholesterol level.