Lowering Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a naturally occurring wax-like substance that the body uses to produce hormones, bile acids that help digest fat, and vitamin D. Primarily produced in the liver, cholesterol is also an essential building block in the formation of cellular walls, or membranes.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL), is usually referred to as the "good" cholesterol because it is known to protect against coronary artery disease. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), however, is considered the "bad" cholesterol because it leads to the buildup of cholesterol and fat within an artery, called atherosclerosis. This buildup can severely hinder, or block, blood flow to the heart, which can lead to cardiovascular disease and a heart attack.

There are two basic ways to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. First, by living a heart-healthy lifestyle to achieve a healthy weight through diet and exercise and then by combining this heart-healthy lifestyle with the use of medications.

Dr. Edward K. Massin, a cardiologist at the Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, says dietary cholesterol intake is not the biggest influence on blood cholesterol levels. "In actuality," says Dr. Massin, "it is the amount of saturated fat in the diet that is the true offender.

"Eating large amounts of starchy foods raises triglycerides in the blood, which is also undesirable," says Dr. Massin. "Following a sensible diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, and one that is low in saturated fat, will help keep HDL cholesterol levels up and LDL cholesterol levels down. Remember, moderation is essential."

It is also important to take part in some kind of aerobic exercise at least three days a week for 30 minutes at a time.

For patients at high risk for heart disease, or those who have already been diagnosed with heart disease, Dr. Massin recommends supplementing a heart-healthy lifestyle with medications.

"Those on cholesterol-lowering medications should have their cholesterol, triglycerides and liver function checked by a physician on a regular basis," says Dr. Massin. "By doing so, the physician will be able to determine the effectiveness of any medications being used and adjust them accordingly."

- From Texas Heart Institute

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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E-Mail: tmcinfo@texmedctr.tmc.edu
URL: http://www.tmc.edu/health_briefs/02_15_00-cholesterol.html