High Cholesterol

High cholesterol, also known as hypercholesterolemia. It is a medical condition characterized by increased levels of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance and it is a major component of cell membrane, help in the synthesis of hormones, production of bile and vit D.

Cholesterol is transported in the blood by lipoproteins. There are two main types of cholesterol-carrying lipoproteins.

Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): or bad cholesterol because its high levels build up cholesterol in the walls of arteries, forming plaques. These plaques can narrow and block blood vessels, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, and stroke.

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol: HDL cholesterol is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. It helps to transport excess cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver for excretion. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.

Very-Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL) Cholesterol: VLDL cholesterol carries triglycerides and other lipids from the liver to the body's cells. Elevated levels of VLDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

These three types of cholesterol, along with total cholesterol levels, are measured through a blood test called a lipid profile or cholesterol blood test. The balance between these types of cholesterol in the bloodstream is important for assessing an individual's risk of cardiovascular disease. Managing these cholesterol levels, especially reducing LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol, is a key component of heart disease prevention and management.

High cholesterol levels especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is significantly impacting body by contributing to the development of atherosclerosis (buildup fatty deposits in the arteries) and this can lead to develop various problems including:

1-cardiovascular disease: Elevated LDL cholesterol can lead to the formation of plaques in the arteries, causing them to narrow and become less flexible. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, can result in coronary artery disease (coronary arteries supply blood to heart muscles become blocked or narrowed due to plaque leads to chest pain /angina and potentially heart attack), stroke (plaque in the carotid artery leading to brain blocks it result in strokes)

2-Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Atherosclerosis can affect arteries in the legs, reducing blood flow and causing leg pain and weakness.

3-Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): High cholesterol can contribute to high blood pressure, which can further damage the arteries and the heart, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

4- Xanthomas: These are fatty deposits that can accumulate on the skin, tendons, and around the eyes in individuals with very high cholesterol levels. Xanthomas can be unsightly and sometimes painful.

5-Gallstones: High levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder.

6-Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: High cholesterol levels, particularly high triglycerides, are associated with the accumulation of fat in the liver, a condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

7-Reduced Blood Flow: Atherosclerosis caused by high cholesterol can lead to reduced blood flow throughout the body, affecting various organs and tissues. This can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and decreased exercise tolerance.

High cholesterol often does not cause immediate symptoms, that is why it is called as a "silent" risk factor. Regular cholesterol screening and management are crucial for identifying and addressing high cholesterol before it leads to severe cardiovascular problems.

Lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, exercise, and medication helps to maintain a healthy balance of these cholesterol types.

HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Homeopathic remedies selection is based on a holistic evaluation of the individual, including physical and mental symptoms, and they can vary from person to person. It is crucial to consult with your physician before starting treatment. Some commonly used homeopathic remedies that have been suggested for high cholesterol include.

Allium sativa, Alfalfa, Avena sativa, Berbaris vulgaris, Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, Lecithin, Lycopodium, Nux vomica Oenothera, Sulphur, Terminalia bal.

Diet for managing high cholesterol.

Diet plays a important role in managing high cholesterol levels, particularly in reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often called as "bad" cholesterol. A heart-healthy diet can help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Here are few dietary guidelines for reducing high cholesterol:

• Reduce intake of foods high in saturated fat, such as fatty cuts of red meat, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils like coconut and palm oil.

• Avoid trans fats, which are found in many processed and fried foods.

• Choose healthy unsaturated fats, such as monounsaturated fats found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts, as well as polyunsaturated fats found in fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts are healthy fats.

• Increased dietary fiber in your diet like oats barley legumes fruits and vegetables as it helps in lowering LDL cholesterol.

• Add more omega 3 fatty acids in your diet like salmon, mackerel, Trout. In vegetarian sources add walnuts flaxseeds chia seeds, hemp seeds, canola oil as they are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty which can help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation.

• Reduce your intake of foods high in refined sugars and carbohydrates, as they can contribute to weight gain and negatively affect cholesterol levels.

• Avoid overeating, which can lead to weight gain and potentially increase cholesterol levels.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as staying hydrated can support overall health and metabolism.

• Choose heart-healthy snacks, such as nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, over processed and high-fat snacks.

• Use heart-healthy cooking methods like grilling, baking, steaming, and sautéing, and minimize frying.

Dietary changes are more effective when combined with lifestyle modifications such as exercises maintaining healthy weight, no smoking. before changing in diet, it is advisable to consult with your dietician.