According to research, high cholesterol is asymptomatic in many people. However, if left untreated, it can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
Doctors state that proper nutrition and lifestyle changes help reduce cholesterol.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance produced in the liver. It is considered essential in certain amounts for the body. It helps in the production of hormones and vitamin D.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
"Good" cholesterol — HDL,
"Bad" cholesterol — non-HDL.
Having too much "bad" cholesterol causes fat to accumulate in the walls of blood vessels. This makes blood circulation difficult.
Experts state that saturated fats found in products like butter, fatty meat, dairy products, cake, and cookies increase "bad" cholesterol.
Instead, it is recommended to prefer healthier fats:
olive oil,
avocado,
fish,
walnuts and almonds,
flaxseed and sunflower seeds.
Oats, barley, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are rich in soluble fiber that helps reduce cholesterol.
Especially, the fiber type called beta-glucan found in oats and barley is reported to lower cholesterol.
Some yogurts and foods rich in plant sterols and stanols are noted to help reduce "bad" cholesterol.
Experts recommend increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption.
In some cases, medication may also be necessary to reduce cholesterol. (Demokrat.az)