Cholesterol Level Is A Dreaded Phrase
Cholesterol level has become a dreaded phrase for most people. High levels of cholesterol, particularly LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Heart disease is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. It is a major risk factor for the development of heart disease.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver and found in the body’s cells. It is a lipid type (fat) carried in the bloodstream by proteins called lipoproteins. There are two main types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as “good” cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol.
HDL cholesterol is responsible for carrying cholesterol away from the cells and back to the liver, where it is broken down and removed from the body. On the other hand, LDL cholesterol carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells, where it can build up and form plaques in the walls of the arteries. This plaque build-up can narrow the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. High LDL cholesterol levels can also increase the risk of other health problems like diabetes and kidney disease.
Because of the potential health risks associated with high cholesterol level, people need to be aware of their cholesterol levels. They should take steps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, if necessary. It may include lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Additionally, if necessary, taking cholesterol-lowering medications as prescribed by a healthcare professional is important as well.
Bad for Cholesterol Level
Saturated fats in animal products such as fatty meats, whole milk, cheese, and butter can increase LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. We should limit these fats in our diet. Trans fats in fried foods, processed foods, and baked goods made with partially hydrogenated oils can increase LDL cholesterol levels. We should avoid them as much as possible. Refined carbs, such as white bread, pasta, and pastries, can contribute to higher LDL cholesterol levels. Avoiding sugary drinks and snacks, such as soda, sports drinks, and candy can help to keep many other ailments at bay besides preventing the increase of LDL cholesterol levels.
People think whatever we eat nowadays is bad for our health. Not really.
Fruits and vegetables are fiber-rich, which can help lower cholesterol levels. Good choices include apples, pears, oranges, berries, leafy green vegetables, and beans. Whole grains, such as oats, whole wheat, and brown rice, are high in fiber and can help lower cholesterol levels. Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds, are high in heart-healthy unsaturated fats that can mitigate cholesterol levels.
Fish, particularly fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids. As a result, they help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. In addition, plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, and tofu, are low in saturated fat and can help lower cholesterol levels. Avocado is high in monounsaturated fats, which is good for you as it can lower cholesterol levels.
Meat Eaters Have Higher Bad Cholesterol Level
It is not necessarily the case that vegetarians have lower cholesterol levels than non-vegetarians. Cholesterol levels can vary widely among individuals, regardless of diet. In addition, many factors can affect cholesterol levels, including genetics, age, weight, physical activity, and diet.
That being said, it is true that vegetarian diets can be associated with lower cholesterol levels, on average, compared to non-vegetarian diets. It is because vegetarian diets are typically rich in plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, which are high in fiber and low in saturated fat. As a result, these foods have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels.
Exercise to Manage Cholesterol Levels
Individuals who follow a vegetarian diet may have other healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular physical activity, which can contribute to lower cholesterol levels. However, it is important to note that it is possible to follow a vegetarian diet and still consume foods high in saturated fat, which can increase cholesterol levels.
As we well know, exercise can help manage cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Exercise can help to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels. Therefore, it can improve the overall cholesterol profile and reduce the risk of heart disease.
In addition to its effects on cholesterol levels, exercise has many other benefits for overall health and well-being. It can help to maintain a healthy weight, improve blood pressure, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost mood and energy levels. Aerobic exercises increase the heart rate and oxygen demand. Resistance training involves using weights or other resistance to strengthen and tone the muscles. Resistance training can help to raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels and improve the overall cholesterol profile. Flexibility exercises, such as stretching and yoga, can help to improve flexibility and mobility and may also help to lower cholesterol levels.
Other lifestyle modifications may help manage cholesterol levels. These include following a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco products, and limiting the intake of alcohol.