What Lowers Cholesterol?

High cholesterol, one of the most common diseases of our time, is a major cause of many dangerous conditions, primarily heart and vascular diseases. Cholesterol, which has a structure similar to fats, is found in animal-based foods and is also produced in the liver. While it plays significant roles in body functions, elevated blood cholesterol levels can lead to structural damage in all blood vessels, particularly in the heart and brain, by causing a condition known as atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.

What Causes Cholesterol?

Genetic and environmental factors play a combined role in the etiology of high cholesterol disease. While some individuals may be genetically predisposed to cholesterol issues, the primary cause of cholesterol problems is actually poor and unbalanced nutrition. By implementing a correct and balanced dietary plan and adjusting the amount of animal-based foods, it is possible to prevent cholesterol problems.

What Are the Symptoms of Cholesterol?

Cholesterol disease generally does not show symptoms and is usually discovered during routine blood tests. However, in advanced cases, patients may experience some symptoms. The most common symptoms include:

Fatigue and headaches
Yellow spots and formations on the skin, also known as xanthomas
Formation of fatty lumps around the eyes
Decreased appetite
Forgetfulness and depression
Burning, numbness, and bruising in the legs

What Should Cholesterol Levels Be?

There are two main types of cholesterol. One is HDL, known as good cholesterol, and the other is LDL, known as bad cholesterol, which underlies high cholesterol disease. An LDL cholesterol level of less than 100 mg/dL is considered healthy. Levels between 130-159 mg/dL are acceptable or borderline, 160-189 mg/dL is high, and levels above 190 mg/dL are considered very high. HDL cholesterol, which prevents the accumulation of bad cholesterol in the arteries, should generally be less than 40 mg/dL and not exceed 60 mg/dL. A total cholesterol level exceeding 200 mg/dL is an indicator of high cholesterol.

What Can You Do to Lower Cholesterol?

To lower cholesterol, it is essential first to undergo a medical examination and have the necessary blood tests and other assessments. If necessary, cholesterol-lowering medications recommended by a doctor can be used. Additionally, adhering to a dietary plan suggested by a doctor and a dietitian plays a crucial role in the progression of the disease. Key points that can help lower cholesterol levels include:

Minimizing the intake of animal-based foods and fats in the diet.
Prioritizing the consumption of foods rich in omega-3 components, such as fish, walnuts, and purslane, which help reduce bad cholesterol.
Consuming probiotic and prebiotic foods (such as yogurt, ayran, kefir, etc.) in abundance, which have effects similar to cholesterol-lowering medications.
Increasing the amount of physical activity and, if possible, engaging in regular exercise.

If you have high cholesterol disease, you can take the necessary precautions based on the information above and regularly have health check-ups to prevent the negative effects that high cholesterol may cause in your body.

Last Updated Date: 02 April 2018

Publication Date: 02 April 2018