Cholesterol: definition and symptoms
Cholesterol is a fatty substance naturally produced by the liver and present in our diet. It plays a vital role in the formation of cell membranes, the production of certain hormones and the synthesis of vitamin D. In general, hypercholesterolemia, or excess cholesterol in the blood, has no direct visible symptoms. It is detected by blood screening.
Excess cholesterol can have adverse health consequences. A common effect is the narrowing of arteries and the formation of plaque, a process known as atherosclerosis. This increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and peripheral arterial disease. It is therefore essential to regularly monitor cholesterol levels by means of a blood test, especially if you belong to a high-risk population, such as those who are obese, diabetic or have a family history of cardiovascular disease.
What's the difference between good and bad cholesterol?
There are two main types of cholesterol in the blood: HDL cholesterol, often referred to as “good” cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol, known as “bad” cholesterol.
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is considered “bad” because it transports cholesterol from the liver to the arteries. When LDL levels are high, this can cause cholesterol to build up in the arteries, hardening and clogging them, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, on the other hand, is the “good” cholesterol. Its function is to transport excess cholesterol from the arteries to the liver, where it is eliminated. A high level of HDL can therefore help reduce the risk of heart disease, by counterbalancing the negative effects of LDL.
Our advice: if you have risk factors, have regular check-ups and consult our doctors for a personalized assessment.
Lowering cholesterol through diet
Diet plays an essential role in managing cholesterol levels. Here are a few tips to help you reduce LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol:
Eat soluble fibers: these, found in oatmeal, apples, carrots and legumes, are particularly effective in reducing LDL cholesterol. They act by binding to cholesterol in the intestine, preventing it from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
Opt for unsaturated fats: replacing saturated fats (found in animal fats (especially meat), palm oil and coconut oil) with “good” fats, found in olive oil, rapeseed oil, avocado and nuts, can reduce LDL levels while preserving HDL.
Choose fatty fish: rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon, mackerel and sardines help reduce triglycerides (a type of lipid in the blood), blood coagulation and inflammatory response.
Limit trans fats: these fats, often found in processed foods and industrial baked goods, increase LDL levels while reducing HDL.
Eat fruits and vegetables: rich in antioxidants, fiber and phytosreols, fruits and vegetables help protect the arteries against cholesterol deposits and maintain balanced cholesterol levels.
What natural treatment is best for managing cholesterol levels?
A number of plants and dietary supplements have been shown to have beneficial cholesterol-lowering effects:
Psyllium: this type of soluble fiber, often used as a supplement, has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels. It can be taken as a powder added to water or food.
Green tea: rich in antioxidants, green tea can help reduce LDL cholesterol and improve heart health.
Phytosterols: present in certain fortified foods or in the form of supplements, phytosterols block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine and can therefore help reduce LDL levels.
Sometimes, a healthy lifestyle is not enough to maintain cholesterol levels. Before making any changes (diet, natural treatments), consult a doctor or one of our dieticians.
FAQ on cholesterol
Is alcohol dangerous for cholesterol?
Alcohol, consumed in excess, can be dangerous for cholesterol, as it increases levels of triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood, which can aggravate cardiovascular problems.
Does eating sugar raise cholesterol levels?
Sugar, in turn, can indirectly raise cholesterol, as excessive sugar consumption leads to weight gain and increased triglycerides, which can unbalance cholesterol levels.
Is homeopathy effective?
The efficacy of homeopathy in lowering cholesterol is not scientifically proven, and it is not generally recommended as a primary treatment for managing cholesterol levels.