How to Lower Cholesterol Fast
Cholesterol is a type of fat that is found in all cells in the body. It is essential for many bodily functions, such as hormone production, cell growth, and nerve function. However, high levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
There are two types of cholesterol: LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is often called "bad cholesterol" because it can build up in the arteries and form plaque, which can narrow the arteries and make it difficult for blood to flow through them. HDL cholesterol is often called "good cholesterol" because it helps to remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries and transport it to the liver, where it is broken down and removed from the body.
What is high cholesterol?
Total cholesterol levels are considered normal when they are less than 200 mg/dL. Borderline-high cholesterol levels range from 200 to 239 mg/dL. High cholesterol levels are considered to be 240 mg/dL or higher.
What causes high cholesterol?
There are a number of factors that can contribute to high cholesterol, including:
Diet: Eating a diet high in saturated fat and trans fat can increase LDL cholesterol levels. Saturated fat is found in animal products such as meat, poultry, and dairy products. Trans fat is found in processed foods such as fried foods, baked goods, and margarine.
Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL cholesterol levels.
Physical activity: Lack of physical activity can increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL cholesterol levels.
Smoking: Smoking cigarettes can increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL cholesterol levels.
Age: As people age, their cholesterol levels tend to increase.
Genetics: Some people are more likely to have high cholesterol than others due to their genes.
What are the symptoms of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol usually does not cause any symptoms. However, if cholesterol levels are very high, they can cause:
Chest pain (angina)
Shortness of breath
Leg pain
Numbness or weakness in the legs
Vision problems
How is high cholesterol diagnosed?
High cholesterol is diagnosed with a blood test. The test measures the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
How is high cholesterol treated?
Treatment for high cholesterol depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Treatment options include:
Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes that can help to lower cholesterol include:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Losing weight if overweight or obese
- Getting regular physical activity
- Quitting smoking
Medications: Medications that can be used to lower cholesterol include: - Statins
- Bile acid resins
- Niacin
- Fibrates
- PCSK9 inhibitors
Other therapies: Other therapies that may be used to lower cholesterol include: - Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
- LDL apheresis
How can I lower my cholesterol fast?
There is no quick fix for lowering cholesterol. However, there are a number of things you can do to lower your cholesterol levels more quickly, including:
Start a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting your intake of saturated fat and trans fat.
Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese. Even a small amount of weight loss can help to lower cholesterol levels.
Quit smoking. Smoking cigarettes can increase LDL cholesterol levels and decrease HDL cholesterol levels.
Talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment for your high cholesterol.
FAQ
Q: What is the best diet for lowering cholesterol?
A: The best diet for lowering cholesterol is a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet. This means eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting your intake of saturated fat and trans fat.
Q: How much exercise do I need to do to lower my cholesterol?
A: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Q: How much weight do I need to lose to lower my cholesterol?
A: Even a small amount of weight loss can help to lower cholesterol levels. Aim for a healthy weight loss goal of 1-2 pounds per week.
Q: Can I take supplements to lower my cholesterol?
A: There are a number of supplements that can help to lower cholesterol, such as plant sterols, plant stanols, and niacin. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as they may interact with other medications you are taking.
Q: What are the risks of high cholesterol?
A: High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
