What are the risks associated with hypercholesterolemia?

Question

Hi doctor,

I recently had a blood test, and my doctor said I have high cholesterol levels or hypercholesterolemia. I am not sure what this means for my health. What are the risks if I do not address it? She mentioned changing my diet could help, but I am confused about what foods I should eat or avoid. Are eggs really bad? What about red meat? I have heard conflicting information about fats - which ones are good and which are bad? Also, how often should I have my cholesterol checked? Is medication necessary, or can I manage this with a diet alone? What lifestyle changes, besides diet, might help lower my cholesterol levels? Please advise.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

High cholesterol levels, or hypercholesterolemia, mean you have an elevated level of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is necessary for building cells, but too much of it can lead to health problems. If left unaddressed, high cholesterol can lead to:

1. Hardening and narrowing of the arteries.

2. Increased risk of coronary artery disease (damage or disease in the heart's major blood vessels) and heart attacks.

3. Reduced or blocked blood flow to the brain, causing stroke (damage to the brain from interruption of its blood supply).

4. Narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs.

I recommend taking a diet rich in:

1. Fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, like whole grains, oats, barley, whole wheat, nuts and seeds, almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds.

2. Legumes like beans, lentils, and fish (especially fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids).

3. Healthy oils like olive oil, canola oil, and other vegetable oils.

Foods to avoid or limit include:

1. Trans fats like fried foods, baked goods, and processed snacks.

2. Saturated fats are present in fatty cuts of meat, butter, cheese, and other full-fat dairy products.

3. Refined carbohydrates present in sugary foods, white bread, and other refined grains.

While eggs contain cholesterol, they do not significantly raise cholesterol levels in most people. You can generally include eggs in your diet in moderation.

4. Red meat should be consumed in moderation. Lean cuts and occasional consumption are better choices.

5. Good fats include unsaturated fats found in fish, nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.

6. Bad fats like saturated and trans fats are found in red meat, butter, full-fat dairy, and processed foods.

I suggest a time-to-time investigation and physical examination by a doctor. Many people can manage high cholesterol with diet and lifestyle changes alone. Medicines may be necessary for some individuals, especially if they have a high risk of cardiovascular disease (heart conditions that include diseased vessels, structural problems, and blood clots) or if lifestyle changes are not enough to bring cholesterol levels down.

1. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.

2. Quit smoking.

3. Moderate alcohol consumption, if any.

4. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can lower cholesterol levels.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.