Conditions
CHOLESTEROL
Symptoms
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance in the blood. Cholesterol in itself is not harmful and the body needs a certain amount to function properly. However, as levels rise cholesterol can begin to clog the arteries and lead to heart disease.
There are no symptoms to indicate you have a high or low cholesterol level and it is impossible to determine your levels without taking a lipid test.
Causes
Cholesterol is a transport molecule that packages and shuttles fatty substances around the body.
Blood cholesterol levels are influenced by two factors: The first is the food a person eats. The second is how much cholesterol his or her body makes. Cholesterol is made by the body in the liver.
Treatment
A lipid (fat) test can be taken on a blood sample to determine your cholesterol levels. The test measures levels of trigylcerides (fat in the blood), High-Density and Lipid protein (HDL, good protein) and Low-Density Lipid protein (LDL, bad protein).
The first, LDL is known as ’bad’ cholesterol as too much of it can clog your arteries. The second, HDL is known as ’good’ cholesterol as it carries cholesterol away from your arteries.
Your doctor will assess your condition on an individual basis and take into account the number of risk factors in your life for heart disease. If your levels are higher than they should be, a program of treatment will aim to lower them through lifestyle modification as well as medication.
Lifestyle considerations
Dietary therapy is a fundamental part of any cholesterol treatment program. Weight loss is a primary goal for overweight patients.
Losing fat cells is sometimes all that is necessary to lower cholesterol. Studies have shown diets consisting of monounsaturated fats (such as whole grains, fish, chicken, vegetables and fruit) can help.
Other factors to consider are combining dietary therapy with 30 minutes of moderate daily aerobic exercise, and quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake.
Taking dietary supplements such as Vitamin E and fish oil and Co-Enzyme Q10 can assist in maintaining healthy heart and cardiovascular function, and healthy cholesterol levels.
Your doctor can provide expert advice regarding safe participation in exercise and a healthy lifestyle to complement your cholesterol medications or treatments. This website also contains some excellent resources, so take some time to browse.
Sourced from:
www.medicinenet.com
www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
www.abc.net.au
How Herron Can Help
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Co-Enzyme Q10 50
A powerful antioxidant to support and maintain a healthy heart and cardiovascular system, Co Q 10 can also assist in improved stamina endurance and energy levels…more -
Co-Enzyme Q10 75
A powerful antioxidant to support and maintain a healthy heart and cardiovascular system, Co Q 10 can also assist in improved stamina endurance and energy levels…more -
Fish Oil 500mg
Fish Oil 500mg Omega 3 plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy heart, and helps provide relief of joint inflammation and joint mobility associated with arthritis.more -
Fish Oil 1000
Fish Oil 1000 is a high potency supplement specifically formulated to help maintain a healthy heart and assist in the relief from joint inflammation and immobility associated with arthritis. Fish oil can positively influence LDL:HDL cholesterol ratio in healthy individuals.more -
Natural Vitamin E 500IU
Natural E 500IU is a fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin that helps promote a healthy heart and cardiovascular system. It also helps to maintain healthy arteries by reducing oxidation of LDL cholesterol.more
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional. Vitamin supplements should not replace a balanced diet.