High cholesterol occurs when you have too much of fatty substance in your blood. High cholesterol has no prominent symptoms and can only be detected after a blood test. High cholesterol levels usually block your blood vessels and may lead to a heart attack or stroke.
When the cholesterol levels are high, arteries become hard and narrow due to the excessive build up of plaque which puts strain on the heart to pump blood through these arteries. During the initial stage it causes pain in the chest commonly known as angina, later this may results in a heart attack which is a serious condition.
Contributing Factors
Factors that contribute to high cholesterol levels include:
- Unhealthy diet
- Obesity
- Lack of exercise
- Smoking
- Age
Prevention Strategies
As mentioned, high cholesterol levels result from inactivity, poor diet and obesity. This may lead to serious health conditions such as heart attack, stroke, coronary heart disease or other cardiovascular diseases. However, these life-threatening diseases can be addressed by following the mentioned prevention strategies:
1. Maintain a healthy diet
A healthy diet plays an eminent role in controlling cholesterol levels. Red meat and saturated fat (animal fats) and trans-fats commonly found in some commercially baked cookies, crisps and popcorn are known to elevate cholesterol levels. Therefore, opting for a balanced diet that includes vegetables, fruits, soluble fibre and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can significantly keep health conditions under control.
2. Stay active
Research indicates that maintaining a healthy weight and working out regularly can reduce body fat, reduce stress, lower blood pressure and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
3. Refrain from smoking
Smoking tobacco can take a huge toll on your overall health. In order to stay fit and healthy, it is highly recommended to abstain from it. The tar in cigarette smoke makes blood thick which contributes in the formation of plague in the blood vessels making it difficult for the heart to pump blood with a normal flow.
4. Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels regularly
Monitoring your blood and cholesterol levels is an ideal way to keep track of your progress, recovery and overall health. Monitoring will not only help manage your blood pressure and cholesterol but may also save you from serious and potentially life-threatening health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes and coronary heart disease.
5. Avoid stressful situations
Although stress is commonly overlooked, it too is a major contributor of high blood pressure and cholesterol. Yoga, workout, meditation, and adequate sleep can help reduce stress levels naturally and promote healthy living.
