Cause of increased cholesterol levels are not always in your control, although other causes can be controlled through lifestyle changes and diet.
There are two types of cholesterol in the body, the HDL or high-density lipoprotein, and LDL or low density lipoprotein.
HDL is called good cholesterol as well as being able to control the whole body's cholesterol levels.
LDL cholesterol is being regarded as evil because it can lead to clogged arteries.
To stay healthy, should be increased HDL levels were LDL levels need to be lowered.
identification
Have high cholesterol levels are at increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Total cholesterol levels of 200 mg / dL or more is usually considered high.
If the total cholesterol level was recorded 240 mg / dL or higher, a person's risk of heart attack or stroke will be very high.
In order to get to the cells of the body, must be transported by LDL cholesterol. When LDL levels are too high, potentially binds LDL fat and build up of plaque on the artery walls, causing blockage.
Blockage will inhibit blood flow to various parts of the body including the heart and brain, causing heart attacks and strokes.
Ideal LDL level depends on a person's risk of heart attack and stroke.
Here are the recommended levels of LDL:
- The risk is very high: less than 70 mg / dL.
- High risk: 100 mg / dL.
- Moderate risk: less than 130 mg / dL.
- Low risk: less than 160 mg / dL.
Here are 4 factors that can increase levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood:
1. diet
In addition to manufactured by the body, cholesterol can also be found in various foods.
Eating foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol will increase total cholesterol and LDL levels.
It is important to read food labels, even foods that claim to be "natural" or "low-fat" may contain substances that increase cholesterol levels.
Types of foods high in saturated fats such as liver, sausage, bologna, salami, and hot dogs.
Milk, cheese, vegetable oils made from coconut, palm and cocoa can also increase LDL.
2. smoke
According to the American Heart Association, smoking can lower levels of HDL or good cholesterol.
Smoking also makes the body more difficult to do physical activity and sport. Regular exercise is an important step in lowering LDL levels.
American Heart Association states that when a person stops smoking, the risk of heart disease and stroke will be reduced by 50% after one year.
3. Less Sports & Obesity
Lack of movement or exercise play a role in increasing LDL cholesterol. When doing cardiovascular exercise, the heart and arteries become stronger.
Lack of exercise can also lead to obesity. Overweight may increase triglycerides, lower HDL and increase LDL levels.
4. genetics
Have a family history of high cholesterol will increase a person's risk.
Knowing the medical history of the parents, grandparents, and other family members will help to determine the level of risk.
Accumulation of fat in the arteries can occur in childhood and cause increased blood cholesterol levels. This will continue to happen until the person becomes an adult.
Knowing this information will enable one to choose a healthy lifestyle to ward off genetic predisposition triggers high cholesterol.
In addition, high cholesterol can also be caused by diseases of lipid abnormalities are genetically inherited. This condition causes high total cholesterol, low HDL, and high triglycerides.