High cholesterol, also known as hypercholesterolemia, is a condition where there is an excessive amount of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a type of fat that is essential for the body’s normal functioning but can be harmful in excessive amounts. High cholesterol levels are a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke, which are the leading causes of death worldwide.
Causes:
The main causes of high cholesterol are unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as a diet high in saturated and trans fats, lack of physical activity, obesity, and smoking. In rare cases, high cholesterol may also be due to genetic factors.
Dosha:
In Ayurveda, high cholesterol is seen as an imbalance of the Kapha dosha, which is responsible for stability, structure, and lubrication in the body. When there is an excess of Kapha, it can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol and other fats in the body.
Danger:
High cholesterol is dangerous because it can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can narrow and harden the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. This can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, which can be life-threatening.
Symptoms:
High cholesterol does not usually cause any symptoms until it leads to complications such as heart disease or stroke. Therefore, it is essential to get regular cholesterol screenings.
Precautions:
- Maintain a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats, and high in fiber and whole grains.
- Engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking or jogging, for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity can contribute to high cholesterol.
- Quit smoking and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.
- Limit alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol consumption can increase cholesterol levels.
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga.
- Take medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider to lower cholesterol levels.
- Include heart-healthy foods in your diet, such as fatty fish, nuts, and olive oil.
- Avoid processed and packaged foods that may contain high levels of saturated and trans fats.
- Get regular cholesterol screenings as recommended by a healthcare provider.
WHO facts:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), high cholesterol is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke, which are the leading causes of death worldwide. WHO recommends regular cholesterol screenings for early detection and management of high cholesterol levels. They also suggest adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity, to prevent and manage high cholesterol.
