Skip to main content

How to maintain healthy cholesterol levels



The first challenge is pursuading people to get their cholesterol tested. The second is making sure they get it done by a healthcare professional, whether that is with a GP or a practice nurse, or at an NHS Health Check. Some pharmacies and supermarkets are starting to offer tests, and there are local initiatives, too.

Symptoms of high cholesterol show only when you are starting to get heart disease as a result: you build up a lot of fatty plaque in your arteries, start to experience shortness of breath, chest pains or angina. By that point, the condition is irreversible – and the earlier in life you have a heart attack or stroke, the worse your long-term outcomes are. Prevention is absolutely better than cure.

Most people can start with lifestyle factors. As a nation, we know we are not as active as we should be, that we are increasingly overweight and that our intake of saturated fats is too high – that leads to our cholesterol levels being too high.

For most people, the first step would be to reduce their saturated fats intake, and to eat more soy foods, nuts, oats or barley. Eating more fibre and vegetables can help manage cholesterol levels, too. And the more exercise, the better; the government says two and a half hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week is the minimum. Taking 10,000 steps a day is good for you but unless that gets you out of breath and your heart rate up, you need to do more.

If, after three months of improved diet and increased exercise, someone’s cholesterol levels haven’t shifted much, there may be genetic issues at play. That is why it is just as important to understand your family medical history as it is your own numbers. Some people have normal cholesterol and blood pressure, but have a family history of heart disease and heart attacks or strokes, so they are still prescribed medication, most often statins, which are taken once daily.

Everyone should see their GP every year to have their cholesterol and blood pressure checked. A lot can change in 12 months.
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

How Health Technology and Innovation Are Revolutionizing Wellness

In recent years, health technology has transformed the way we approach wellness, making it more personalized, accessible, and efficient than ever before. From wearable devices that track every heartbeat to AI-powered diagnostics, innovations in health tech are reshaping how we monitor, manage, and improve our health. These advancements not only empower individuals but also have the potential to revolutionize healthcare systems worldwide. Wearables: Your Health on Your Wrist Fitness trackers, smartwatches, and other wearable gadgets have become ubiquitous in everyday life. These devices monitor heart rate, sleep quality, physical activity, oxygen levels, and even stress in real-time. Beyond basic tracking, many wearables now provide personalized insights, reminders to move, hydration alerts, and even ECG readings. This constant stream of data helps users take control of their health, encouraging healthier habits and facilitating early detection of potential issues before they become s...
Post a Comment
Read more

How to Stay Healthy While Working a Desk Job

Let's face it — modern work life often means long hours at a desk, back-to-back meetings, endless emails, and too little movement. It might seem like a "safe" routine, but over time, this sedentary lifestyle can contribute to back pain, low energy, poor posture, weight gain, and even mental burnout. The good news? You don't need a total life overhaul to stay healthy. You just need smart, realistic habits that fit your routine. Here's how to keep your body and mind in check — even while staying at your desk. 1. Move Every Hour (Even for 2 Minutes) Sitting for too long slows down circulation, tightens your hips, and stresses your lower back. Set a reminder every hour to get up and move — walk to the kitchen, do some arm circles, or stretch your hamstrings. Even two minutes of movement can help prevent stiffness, boost energy, and improve your mood. 👉 Pro tip: Use a standing desk or switch between sitting and standing if possible. Alternate postures = happy spine. 2...
Post a Comment
Read more

How to Eat and Exercise During Your Menstrual Cycle?

Your menstrual cycle can affect your energy levels, mood, and even your appetite. Understanding how your body changes throughout this period can help you optimize your diet and exercise routine. Here's how you can stay healthy and energized during your menstrual cycle by adjusting your eating habits and workouts. 1. Understanding the Phases of Your Menstrual Cycle Before diving into diet and exercise recommendations, it’s important to understand the four phases of your menstrual cycle: Menstrual Phase (Day 1-5) : This is when you have your period. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone are at their lowest. Follicular Phase (Day 6-14) : Hormones start to rise as your body prepares for ovulation. Estrogen peaks. Ovulation (Day 14-16) : The egg is released from the ovary. Estrogen and testosterone peak during this time. Luteal Phase (Day 17-28) : Progesterone levels rise to prepare the uterus for a potential pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, hormone levels drop, leading to yo...
Post a Comment
Read more