Cholesterol is a compound that is essential for the body to function properly. Harmful health consequences are caused not by its mere presence, but by its excess. Proper cholesterol levels, together with normal blood pressure, significantly distance the risk of cardiovascular ailments and allow you to enjoy good health for many years to come.
High cholesterol – its impact on health
Cholesterol is found primarily in fats of animal origin. Its primary sources are: cheese, egg yolk, beef, pork, poultry, fish and shrimp. Among other things, the human body consumes it for the production of steroid hormones (cortisol, aldosterone, male and female sex hormones) and vitamin D, and for the construction of cell membranes. Its presence in the membranes of nervous system cells is necessary for the proper conduction of nerve impulses. If the usual diet does not provide an adequate amount of it, the body is able to produce it on its own.
Cholesterol does not dissolve in blood or water, so it binds to proteins to form particles, called lipoproteins. These circulate in the bloodstream, transporting cholesterol to areas where it will be consumed. When one speaks colloquially of high or low cholesterol, what is actually meant is the level of lipoproteins in the blood. These can be divided into several fractions, the most important of which are low-density lipoproteins (LDL, “bad cholesterol”) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL, “good cholesterol”). The former is responsible for the formation of narrowing in blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis and heart disease. Therefore, high levels of LDL cholesterol are dangerous to health. HDL cholesterol helps lower “bad cholesterol,” so high levels mean a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. There is also a fraction of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), which does not significantly affect health. The onset of disease may also depend on high levels of the free triglyceride fraction in the blood.
Through research, the following safe cholesterol standards have been established :
- Total blood cholesterol-under 200 mg/dl,
- HDL cholesterol-above 55 mg/dl,
- LDL cholesterol-under 160 mg/dl,
- Triglycerides- less than 160 mg/dl.
Exceeding these values increases the likelihood of getting the disease. The actual level of risk should be estimated by a doctor, who for this purpose also takes into account the results of other tests and lifestyle to date.
How to lower cholesterol
High cholesterol can primarily affect people who include a large amount of animal fats in their daily diet. Overweight, physical inactivity, male gender and a family history of susceptibility to cholesterol problems can also play a role.
Preventive measures to help lower cholesterol can be taken in advance with appropriate over-the-counter medications. A good choice is Sylicynar, which contains extracts of artichoke and milk thistle.
Globe artichoke- action and use
The artichoke is a plant native to the Mediterranean area. Already in ancient times its culinary qualities were appreciated. Numerous studies have shown that artichoke extract has a cholagogic and cholepoietic effect, making it easier to digest fatty foods. It also shows a protective effect on liver cells. The chemical compound contained in it – cynarin – supports the function of the liver and gall bladder. Another significant feature of artichoke extract is its effect on lowering total cholesterol (LDL and HDL fractions combined) and serum triglycerides. As a result, artichoke tablets can be used as a preventive measure by people who are at risk of elevated cholesterol levels, as well as those who have already been diagnosed with them, as an adjunct to doctor-ordered therapy. Thanks to its inulin content, artichoke extract can have a regulating effect on blood sugar levels. Artichoke also has a diuretic and detoxifying effect, so it helps cleanse the body of harmful metabolic products.
Uses of milk thistle
Milk thistle extract, the second ingredient in the drug Sylicynar, has a protective effect on the liver. Silymarin, which is a complex of several chemical compounds, is responsible for this. Regular intake of the spotted thistle extract regenerates liver cells and protects them from the harmful effects of alcohol, poor diet, toxins and drugs. It also stimulates the liver to work. Silymarin is used both in the prevention and treatment of liver disease.
The combination of the two ingredients described above in Sylicynar makes it a potential all-in-one solution for liver problems and elevated cholesterol levels. Sylicynar is intended for adults and children over 12 years of age. The recommended dosage is 2 tablets 3 times a day, preferably after eating. Effects appear after 2-4 weeks of regular use. With your doctor’s approval, you can extend the treatment up to 6 months. Changing to a low-fat diet will help achieve better treatment results.
Proper diet will help lower cholesterol
The source of excess cholesterol is food, so changing your eating habits will certainly help lower cholesterol levels. To do this, it is worth introducing several new products into the daily diet. They should include, first of all:
- A large amount of soluble fiber. Products that contain it include, for example, oatmeal, bran, whole grain bread, brown rice, and vegetables and fruits, eaten with the skin on. 5-10 grams of soluble fiber per day reduces the absorption of cholesterol into the blood. Such an amount is contained, for example, in half a cup of oatmeal
- Fish whose fat is rich in omega-3 acids. Suitable include mackerel, sardines, tuna, salmon or halibut. They should not be fried, so as to avoid adding unnecessary fat to the dish. The healthiest way to prepare them is by boiling, roasting or grilling.
- All kinds of nuts and almonds. They can successfully replace other snacks, as they contain health-promoting fatty acids. Nuts without added sugar or salt are best.
- Olive oil, which lowers bad cholesterol, but has no effect on good cholesterol. It can be added to salads or sauces. You can also spread it on bread. In this way, you eliminate cholesterol-rich butter from your diet. The best choice is extra-virgin oil, which is unprocessed and contains more antioxidants.
Also remember to limit all products that could raise cholesterol levels. Fatty meat (pork, beef) can be replaced by lean meat (skinless chicken). Instead of yellow cheese, skim cottage cheese will be better. A healthy choice is to avoid highly processed foods, as they are generally rich in animal fats.
See also: herbs for the digestive system
Using this advice, combined with an effective cholesterol medication, will significantly reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
