Cholesterol is a waxy substance in the blood that is used to build healthy cells. But the risk of heart disease increases when levels get too high due to poor diet and other lifestyle habits, existing medical conditions, genetics, or a combination of these factors.
For Marcus (not his real name), family history plays a part in his condition.
High cholesterol causes fatty deposits to develop in the blood vessels, which then constrict blood flow to the arteries over time and may form a clot, leading to a heart attack or a stroke.
Cholesterol is the sum total of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and triglycerides. It’s important to know the levels for each component of one’s total cholesterol, even though testing alone isn’t able to provide a conclusive reason for why it is high.
Marcus’ doctor said there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating patients with high cholesterol; each case needs to be evaluated individually.
A treatment plan takes into account factors such as age, lifestyle, and personal as well as family history. In addition to one’s diet, levels of exercise, and weight, the doctor will also consider habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption.
While a heart-healthy diet and exercise plan are vital parts of treatment, if a person is at high risk – for example, those with a cardiac history, or who have conditions such as diabetes or hypertension – medication is usually prescribed.
A person’s weight is often cited as a potential risk factor for high cholesterol. The Malaysian Heart Health Association says being overweight or obese can raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol. A 5-10% weight loss can help improve those numbers.
But there are other contributing factors as well. In Marcus’s case, his cholesterol numbers didn’t reflect the effort he’d put into modifying his lifestyle. He has always been athletic, and maintains an ideal body weight.
He was, therefore, stunned to learn his condition had worsened. The doctor chalked it up to Marcus’ food habits as well as family history. He recommended a Mediterranean-style diet that is low in red meat and sweets, and that focuses on plant-based foods while incorporating healthy fats high in omega-3s, such as olive oil.
Healthy eating helps reduce the risk of lifestyle-related conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. High cholesterol is associated with a higher risk of angina or stroke and, as such, making the effort to change one’s diet and lifestyle is the way forward.
Cholesterol management is often a lifelong process. Marcus takes his medication regularly and has blood work done every six months to ensure his numbers remain in the acceptable range.
Marcus knew early on to watch his cholesterol levels because of his family history, and he encourages others to do the same. Stay active, visit your doctor regularly, get your cholesterol checked, and manage it accordingly.
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