Lifestyle changes for prevention of hypercholesterolemia
Even though fats are one of the most important substances that are needed for energy, hormone production, cell function and vitamin absorption, an excess of fats or lipids—cholesterol, a substance that exists in the fat— in a person’s blood can lead to chronic diseases, notably cardiovascular disease.
Hypercholesterolemia, literally known as high blood cholesterol is the presence of high levels of the low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or elevated levels of triglycerides. Hypercholesterolemia is a risk factor that increases a person’s risk of developing atherosclerosis, which is the common cause of a heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Risk factors
- Familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition
- Presence of some diseases, such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease
- Prolonged steroid use, as well as some medications
- Unhealthy lifestyle
Diagnosis
Blood test is used to screen for and/or diagnose hypercholesterolemia.
Prevention & Treatment
Lifestyle modification plays a critical role in the prevention and treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Try these easy tips to improve your general health.
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Eat a healthy or balanced diet and eat proper portions.
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Avoid food high in cholesterol and saturated fat, such as deep fried food, lard, octopus/ squid, shrimp, egg yolk, coconut milk and processed meat as well as trans fat, such as margarine, shortening, sweet and baked good and deep fried food.
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Maintain a healthy weight.
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Exercise regularly at least 30-45 minutes 3-4 times a week.
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Increase more physical activity
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Stop smoking and limit alcohol drinking
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Learn to relax
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Drink sufficient amount of water
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Get sufficient sleep
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Go for an annual physical check-up
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If you have other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, make sure you take medication as directed as regular follow-up with your doctor for optimal control of all the risk factors.
