By
Medical Care Review | Friday,
June 07,
2024
Specialists suggest the Mediterranean diet for individuals with heart disease or those at risk. This dietary plan consists of a wide range of antioxidant-rich foods, healthy fats, and fiber, which can decrease inflammation. Additionally, it has the potential to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Fremont, CA: Cholesterol, an important lipid compound produced by the body, is vital for numerous bodily processes. It plays a critical role in cell mending, hormone production, and the creation of vitamin D. Nevertheless, excessive levels of cholesterol can result in complications. It can gather as plaque on the walls of arteries, leading to their narrowing and hindering the flow of blood. This elevates the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, inflammation, the body's protective response to perceived threats, can also impact the health of arteries and worsen the effects of cholesterol. Some studies suggest that inflammation may have a more significant influence on heart disease than cholesterol.
The Impact of Cholesterol on Inflammation
Cholesterol plays a role in inflammation through various mechanisms. Cholesterol is present in every cell of your body. Elevated cholesterol levels lead to an increased influx of cholesterol into your cells.
Studies have shown a connection between this increased cholesterol intake and the immune system's release of inflammatory proteins. Furthermore, plaque accumulation in the arteries can stimulate an inflammatory reaction in the body, leading to further damage and an increased risk of heart disease.
The Effect of Inflammation on Cholesterol Levels
Inflammation within the body can lead to various alterations in your cholesterol levels.Studies have proved a link between inflammation and decreased HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. HDL cholesterol plays a crucial role in safeguarding your heart by minimizing the accumulation of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Low HDL cholesterol levels elevate the risk of heart disease as cholesterol is more likely to form plaque deposits.
Furthermore, inflammation contributes to the formation of denser LDL ("bad") cholesterol molecules, which are more prone to transforming into plaque deposits. In addition, inflammation elevates the levels of another type of fat called triglycerides in the bloodstream. High levels of triglycerides are also considered a risk factor for heart disease.
Traditionally, our focus has been on reducing cholesterol as a primary method to mitigate the risk of heart disease. However, discovering ways to decrease inflammation may be even more crucial.
How to Reduce Inflammation and Cholesterol?
Specialists frequently suggest the Mediterranean diet for individuals with heart disease or those at risk. This dietary plan consists of a wide range of antioxidant-rich foods, healthy fats, and fiber, which can decrease inflammation. Additionally, it has the potential to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
A Mediterranean diet encompasses a diverse range of fruits and vegetables, beans and lentils, whole grains, nourishing fats derived from olive oil, avocado, fish, nuts, seeds, and moderate portions of poultry, eggs, and dairy products.
Medications may play a crucial role in the prevention and management of heart disease, particularly for individuals with a personal or family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.
In addition to medication, managing or preventing heart disease requires addressing other risk factors, such as:
● Managing blood sugar levels for people with diabetes or pre-diabetes
● Monitoring and managing blood pressure effectively
● Maintaining an active lifestyle
● Ensuring an adequate amount of sleep
● Managing stress levels
● Utilizing medications or treatments to address other inflammatory conditions.
