Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is a lipoprotein in the blood whose primary function is to transport cholesterol from the liver to various parts of the body.
However, when LDL levels are too high, it can cause cholesterol in the blood to be deposited on the walls of blood vessels, forming atherosclerosis, which in turn increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Therefore, it is important for people with high LDL levels to control their blood lipid levels.
LDL is elevated
What factors are involved
1. Dietary factors:
Diets high in saturated and trans fats can increase LDL levels. These fats are commonly found in fried foods, fast food, high-fat dairy products, and processed foods.
2. Lack of exercise:
An inactive lifestyle can lead to higher LDL levels because exercise helps raise HDL (HDL, or "good cholesterol") levels while lowering LDL levels.
3. Genetic factors:
Familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disorder that causes abnormally high levels of LDL.
4. Obesity:
Being overweight or obese can increase LDL levels in the body, as excess weight can cause the liver to produce more cholesterol.
5. Smoking:
Smoking damages the walls of blood vessels and increases the risk of LDL oxidation, which promotes atherosclerosis.
6. Age and gender:
LDL levels may increase with age. In addition, there are differences in LDL levels between men and women at different ages, with women typically having lower LDL levels before menopause.
LDL is high
Doing a good job of 4 points will help stabilize blood lipids
01
Improve your eating habits
Reduce your intake of saturated and trans fats, which directly raise LDL levels in your blood.
Choose foods rich in unsaturated fats, such as fish, nuts, olive oil, etc., which help to raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which in turn helps to lower LDL.
At the same time, increasing your intake of dietary fiber, such as whole grains, legumes, and vegetables, can help control cholesterol levels.
02
Increase physical activity
Regular physical activity increases HDL levels while lowering LDL levels.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, per week.
03
Control your weight
Being overweight increases LDL levels. Gradually losing weight to the normal range by reducing calorie intake and increasing physical activity can help improve blood lipid levels.
04
Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco can lower HDL levels while raising LDL levels.
It is also important to limit alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol consumption can impair liver function and affect its ability to remove LDL from the blood.
Do I need medication for high LDL?
The need for medication for high LDL depends on the individual's risk assessment of cardiovascular disease.
Doctors may consider medication if LDL levels are not effectively controlled through diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes, or if the individual already has cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or other complications.
Statins are commonly used LDL-lowering drugs, which reduce the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver, thereby lowering LDL levels. In addition, cholesterol absorption inhibitors and bile acid separators are also treatment options.
Before considering medication, doctors evaluate the patient's overall health, LDL levels, other cardiovascular disease risk factors, and the patient's preferences.