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High Cholesterol: A Common Issue
In India, about 2 in 5 adults have high cholesterol. Cholesterol is essential for various body functions such as cell repair, hormone production, and vitamin D creation. However, excessive cholesterol can accumulate as plaque in arteries, leading to narrowed blood vessels and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Role of Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's natural response to perceived threats. While it's a protective mechanism, chronic inflammation can harm arteries and exacerbate cholesterol-related issues, contributing significantly to heart disease.
Inflammation can impact cholesterol in several ways:
Lower HDL Levels: Inflammation is linked to reduced HDL (good cholesterol), which helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream. Low HDL increases the risk of plaque buildup in arteries.
Denser LDL Molecules: Inflammation can make LDL (bad cholesterol) particles denser, making them more likely to form plaques.
Higher Triglycerides: Inflammation raises triglyceride levels, another type of fat in the blood associated with heart disease.
Autoimmune Diseases and Cholesterol
Autoimmune diseases, characterized by abnormal immune responses, lead to chronic inflammation, which can damage various body systems including the cardiovascular system. This inflammation can cause plaque buildup in arteries, increasing heart disease risk. Research also links low HDL levels to a higher risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
Reducing Cholesterol and Inflammation
Adopting a Mediterranean diet, which includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (from olive oil, avocado, fish, nuts, and seeds), and moderate amounts of poultry, eggs, and dairy, can help reduce LDL levels and inflammation. Additionally, medications can play a crucial role, especially for individuals with a personal or family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.
Managing Heart Disease Risk
Managing heart disease involves more than just controlling cholesterol levels. Other important steps include:
Managing Blood Sugar: Especially if you have diabetes or prediabetes.
Monitoring Blood Pressure: Keeping it in check.
Staying Active: Engaging in regular physical activity.
Getting Enough Sleep: Ensuring adequate rest.
Managing Stress: Reducing stress through various techniques.
Using Medications: As prescribed for other inflammatory conditions.
FAQs
Is cholesterol part of the inflammatory response? While cholesterol is not directly involved, high levels can increase inflammation by triggering an immune response.
Can high cholesterol cause joint pain and inflammation? There might be a link, as joint pain often results from inflammation, which is associated with high cholesterol.
Can high cholesterol cause swelling? Not directly, but it can contribute to conditions like blood clots, which can cause swelling.
Key Takeaway
Both cholesterol and inflammation are significant risk factors for heart disease. Addressing inflammation might be even more crucial than lowering cholesterol alone for heart disease prevention and management.