Home - Health - 3 Effective Ways To Manage High Cholesterol

3 effective ways to manage high cholesterol

3 effective ways to manage high cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance in the body that aids in the formation of cells and hormones. However, this lipid can be good or bad, and high levels of bad cholesterol can increasee the risk of developing heart conditions. The CDC suggests that high cholesterol is a common health risk that affects 94 million people over 20. So, here are treatment options, foods, and lifestyle changes that can help manage the condition:

Treatment options
The condition can induce no symptoms, making it important to get the cholesterol levels checked. The treatment for this condition focuses on reducing bad cholesterol in the body. They also aim to lower the risk of developing secondary conditions such as heart diseases. Here are some of the popular treatment options:

LIVALO®: The brand name for pitavastatin, LIVALO® helps in lowering cholesterol levels. It is a statin, which means it belongs to a group of treatment options known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. It is mainly used to treat adults who have high cholesterol, and doctors prescribe this option while also recommending changes in food consumption. The combined effect helps lower the levels of bad cholesterol, also known as LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, in the body. It also helps increase the levels of good cholesterol (or HDL) in the body. While LIVALO® is a popular treatment option, people with allergies, active liver troubles, and those who are nursing or pregnant should avoid it. The most common side effects include back pain, diarrhea, muscle pain, constipation, and even pain in the arms and legs. This is an oral treatment option, usually taken once every 24 hours, with or without food, at the same time every day.
Repatha®: Another treatment option for high cholesterol is Repatha®. Also known as evolocumab, this is a fast-acting injectable treatment option used to treat adults who have cardiovascular diseases and are at risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Repatha® can also be prescribed for those who have undergone heart surgery. Studies have shown that this treatment, along with a statin, can reduce LDL in nearly 90% of people and can bring it down to 70mg/dL or lower. In fact, it can promise up to a 63% reduction in blood cholesterol levels within three months. The treatment can be administered once a month or once every two weeks, depending on the severity of the condition. Its side effects include allergic reactions, runny nose, sore throat, and other flu-like symptoms. It may also cause back pain, high blood sugar, redness, or pain at the injection site. Doctors recommend lifestyle and food-related changes when prescribing this treatment to further reduce health risks.

Better food choices
While treatment options can help keep cholesterol levels in check, people should make changes in their food regimen as a natural remedy for the condition. This includes consuming foods that help improve the HDL levels and avoiding foods that can increase the levels of LDL in the blood. The best foods to have are:

Fiber-rich foods: Some foods are rich in soluble fibers that bind with the cholesterol and eliminate it from the body. Examples include foods such as oats, barley, bran, beans, and other whole grains.
Fish: Seafood such as fatty fish are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids (or polyunsaturated fats) that are better alternatives to unhealthy fats that directly increase LDL.
Foods with sterols and stanols: Some foods also contain sterols and stanols, which are cholesterol-like compounds found in plant-based foods. They can help block the absorption of bad cholesterol. You can get sterols and stanols as supplements. Legumes, vegetable oils, and nuts contain these compounds and should be added to meals.

Some foods should be avoided or at least limited as they can increase LDL in the body along with the risk of developing secondary diseases. Items like fried food, fast food, processed meat, sweetened foods, dairy products like cheese, and desserts contain trans fats that can directly increase cholesterol levels. Further, you should try substituting sugary drinks with water and track your calorie intake to keep cholesterol in check.

Lifestyle changes
Aside from food and treatment, lifestyle changes can also go a long way in managing the condition. One of the biggest changes that can improve cholesterol levels is regular exercise. Any moderate physical activity can help raise HDL levels in the body while also lowering LDL. One can try moderate workouts that last for at least 30 minutes 4–5 times a week. People should also try activities like walking, riding a bike, playing a sport, and even swimming. It is important to develop an exercise plan after consulting with your doctor to avoid taking up strenuous physical activities.

Experts also recommend making small yet important changes to your physical routine to encourage movement. Some tips include using the stairs instead of the elevator, taking breaks from your desk, parking your car a block away from your workplace so you can walk there, and trying to work while standing for short periods. Cutting back on unhealthy lifestyle choices can also reduce the risk of high cholesterol and severe heart-related issues.

Previous Read

Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

Next Read

7 foods that are better for heart health

Studies have established that a poor meal regimen is the leading cause of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other fatal conditions. However, eating healthy foods is not the only cornerstone to preventing and reducing mortality relating to heart conditions. Other factors such as a regular exercise routine and maintaining a reduced stress level can help, too. Here are some of the foods that are excellent for heart health:  Salmon Among the category of fatty fish, salmon contains the maximum omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that substantially reduces inflammation all through the body and decreases damage to the heart and blood vessels. Research has also pointed out that seafood reduces the likelihood of heart failure. An adult is advised to take two servings (approximately 3.5-4 ounces) of omega-3-rich fish per week for better heart health. For non-fish eaters, the best option would be to consume fish oil in the form of supplements to get the daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids. However, it is essential to be mindful of how the salmon is cooked. To reap the optimum health benefit, one should ensure not to deep fry the fish. Try different flavors, like garlic, as it is a superfood and is also linked to better heart health.  Oatmeal Oatmeal is made of soluble, which easily dissolves in water and breaks the indigestible food into a gel-like substance in the colon region. Soluble fibers also lower fat absorption and cholesterol. It helps in weight management and stabilizes blood glucose levels. Moreover, it reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. A bowl of oatmeal is all it takes for a healthy heart to start the day. Oatmeal, in addition, also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which betters heart health. However, ensure to use fat-free or low-fat milk for maximum benefit. Blueberries Blueberries are considered the best superfood for major diseases like breast, colon, lung, prostate, stomach cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. It contains a large amount of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The anthocyanin in blueberries is an antioxidant that protects the body against oxidative stress and inflammation, one of the major causes of heart disease. In addition, it is replete with phytonutrients, with a combination of beta-carotene, lutein, and ellagic acid—all responsible for lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels. In addition, they also fight against free radicals. Eating blueberries daily also improves the efficient functioning of the cells and blood vessels and prevents blood clotting. Other berries like strawberry, raspberry, and blackberries are also rich in nutrient value, but there are no beating blueberries. It would also be wise to avoid canned berries and opt for fresh ones. Topping blueberries to a bowl of oats could save a person from a lot of health trouble.  Avocado Avocado has a rich source of monosaturated fats, which reduces cholesterol levels and lowers the risk of heart disease. Research conducted on 45 people showed the efficacy of avocado. The group was divided into two, and one group was asked to make avocado daily while the other was not. The group that took avocado every day reported a reduction in LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), which is directly linked to the risk of heart disease. In addition, the lipid-lowering abilities of avocados have also been demonstrated in several other studies. Avocadoes are also high on potassium, which is an essential nutrient for a healthy heart. Consuming 5 grams of potassium per day can decrease blood pressure by an average of 8.0/4/1 mmHg, which, in turn, lowers the risk of stroke by 15%, according to a study. Seeds Seed sources like chia seeds, hemp seeds, and flax seeds are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. They control inflammation of the body, blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides and also improve heart condition. Arginine, an amino acid, has been associated with relaxing blood vessels and improving circulation. Studies have also pointed out that arginine enhances blood flow in the arteries. Hemp seeds are known to be high in arginine. On the other hand, flaxseeds keep both blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control. Chia seeds are known to boost beneficial cholesterol (HDL). Dark chocolate Moderate consumption of dark chocolate, around 5-6 servings per week, has a substantial chance of reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. In addition, skin health also improves significantly. Ensure to buy high-quality dark chocolate containing at least 70% of cocoa. Almonds They are known for their high levels of monosaturated fats and fiber, which help reduce belly fat and bad cholesterol, thereby maintaining a healthy heart. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has also issued a visual guide to a healthy meal plan. The pictorial guide states that a meal should consist of: Whole fruits which have to be consumed first  Vegetables that need to vary every day Grains out of which 50% have to be whole grains  Protein that needs to change every day Fat-free or low-fat milk or yogurt  So, these are some of the foods that can help improve and manage heart conditions. However, before adopting any meal plan, it would be wise to consult a doctor or nutritionist, as everyone's body and condition could differ.

Trending Articles

01

Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
02

What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
03

Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
04

Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

Our Blogs

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of ADHD

ADHD, short for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, affects children worldwide, and this also often carries on into their adulthood. Some of the different problems faced by kids suffering from ADHD include sustaining attention for a long time, impulsive behavior, and hyperactivity. There might be other problems associated with ADHD, like low self-esteem, low grades in school, and difficulty in keeping up with relationships. More often than not, symptoms of ADHD are seen to have decreased with age. However, there are cases wherein ADHD symptoms never subside. Levels of ADHD There are three different levels or stages at which ADHD can affect individuals. They are: Predominantly inattentive ADHD This level of ADHD may be related to missing details very easily and getting distracted often. Also, one may get bored very quickly. One has difficulty in processing new information, and there is also the tendency to not listen properly. One might not be able to follow directions very clearly and also lose things like pencils or papers. It has been observed that girls are more likely to get inattentive ADHD than boys. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD This is mostly associated with symptoms like restlessness and difficulty with sitting still. Kids suffering from hyperactive-impulsive ADHD have a tendency to talk consistently, and it’s less likely that they will engage in quiet activities.
Read More
Understanding skin aging

Understanding skin aging

Changes in the skin are one of the biggest signs that the body is aging. But how the aging of skin takes place depends on a lot of factors such as our diet, lifestyle habits, stress levels, and the like. For example, if you smoke regularly, it can lead to the production of free radicals, which damage healthy skin cells and cause wrinkles. So, let’s dig a little deeper into skin aging so that you can diagnose it and prevent it for as long as possible. Stages of skin aging As you age, you will start noticing changes in your skin. These changes take place in phases or stages. Learning about these phases can allow you to take better care of your skin and stay away from everything that can prove to be harmful to it. So, these stages of skin aging are: Stage I – Between 25 and 35 years This is the time when your skin will look extremely voluminous to you. But, this is also the time when the early signs of aging will start to appear. Therefore, it is important that you follow a good skincare regime. Some wrinkles can start appearing on the forehead. Lines can also start to appear on the face when you make normal expressions such as laughing, smiling, or frowning.
Read More
Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of addiction

There are three terms that one can relate to addiction – reward, motivation, and memory. Addiction is when the body craves a behavior or substance in an obsessive pursuit of a reward. The person will have little concern about the consequences of the particular behavior or substance. Things to note in case of addiction Some of the attributes that one can relate with addiction include an inability to stay away from the substance, lack of self-control, an outrageous desire for the substance or behavior, ignorance towards the problems that the behavior might be causing, and a growing tendency to ignore the emotional response. Addictions have been known to interfere with daily life and there are also cases of relapse and remission. The complications of addiction can be physical, emotional, as well as financial. Stages of addiction There are five main stages of addiction. These include: Experimentation Every addiction starts with experimentation and during this stage, one cannot understand that this is the beginning of an addiction. One cannot be sure that this will turn into something serious, and hence no necessary steps are taken at this stage. A simple way to find out how this will turn into addiction is understanding the reason for experimenting and how often a person experiments with new substances.
Read More
Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Top debt settlement companies in the USA

Incurring debt is really common in this age and era as everything has become extremely expensive, from college education to owing a house. If you ever feel that your debt is too large and you may not be able to pay it in time, then you can seek the help of a debt settlement company. These companies essentially communicate with your creditor to try and lower your debt and the rest of it is typically forgiven. Given below is a list of the top 9 debt settlement companies in the USA. National Debt Relief If you have USD 7,500 or more in debt, then the National Debt Relief can be a great choice for you. It is one of the most prominent debt settlement companies in the country. The initial consultation is offered for free, but you will have to pay 15-25% of the settled debt amount as a fee. Freedom Debt Relief This a dedicated company that offers debt relief services to people who have at minimum USD 7,500 to USD 10,000 in debt. 15-25% of the settle debt amount is charged as fee once a settlement is negotiated, and in return, they offer the possibility of settling the debt within 24-48 months.
Read More
Allergies – Stages and prevention

Allergies – Stages and prevention

The immune system of our bodies is constantly fighting against viruses and bacteria to keep us healthy. However, in certain cases, the immune system may also end up fighting some substances that are not always harmful. When this happens, you experience an allergic reaction. The allergens are the substances that cause the reactions. With a little carefulness, you can prevent the allergies effectively. The allergic development Even though an allergic reaction can vary from person to person, it generally progresses in the same five stages: Stage 1 The allergen enters your body through food, air, or touch, and contact the cells in your body. Stage 2 Your immune system creates immunoglobulin E, which is a type of antibody. Stage 3 This antibody enters your gastrointestinal tract or respiratory tract but does not do anything. Stage 4 The next time when you are exposed to the same allergen, the immunoglobulin E treats it as a harmful substance and reacts with it. Stage 5 24 hours after the reaction, the immune system cells move towards the areas that were affected to release certain chemicals to treat it. How to diagnose allergies Your allergies can be diagnosed by a doctor. Before visiting him or her, you must recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Read More
Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia – Symptoms, types, and prevention

Anemia is a kind of medical condition in which an adequate amount of oxygen fails to reach one’s body’s tissues owing to the deficiency of red blood cells in their body. When one suffers from this condition, their body feels weak and exhausted all the time. Symptoms There are different kinds of anemia and each of them has a cause of its own. It can have short-term or long-term effects and the disease can be mild or severe in nature. If one sees any symptoms suggesting that point toward anemia, it is essential to consult a doctor immediately. The signs vary from person to person and depend on the cause or their origin. Sometimes, the chronic disease causes anemia and the doctor ends up diagnosing the disease but the fact that one is suffering from anemia does not show up in the test. Sometimes, there are mild symptoms and then, with time the symptoms become more prominent indicating that the disease has penetrated one’s body more deeply. Some of the commonly found symptoms include breathing difficulties, fatigue, pale skin, chest pain, headache, dizziness, hands and feet turning cold, irregular heartbeat, and pain in the chest . Types of anemia Iron deficiency anemia This is the most common kind of anemia, which occurs due to iron deficiency.
Read More