Cholesterol
Cholesterol is important for our health as it has several beneficial biological functions in our bodies such as synthesis of vitamin D, production of bile that is needed for the digestion and absorption of fats and synthesis of stress and sex hormones. We all need cholesterol for optimal body functioning!
Cholesterol is transported around in the blood inside special transport molecules called lipoproteins that are classified according to their density.
Low density lipoprotein (LDL) carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells. If present in excessive quantities, this type of lipoprotein can lead to the formation of arterial plaque. These plaques are considered a major risk factor strokes, heart attacks and various other cardiovascular diseases. That is why LDL is often referred as bad cholesterol.
High density lipoprotein (HDL) is used to carry cholesterol back to the liver for excretion or to the other tissues for further use like production of hormones and vitamin D. This process is known as reverse cholesterol transport and HDL is considered good for health. This is why it is termed as good cholesterol.
Most conventional blood tests will measure total cholesterol, LDL and HDL. However, in reality what is important is the ratio of LDL:HDL as well as what type of LDL and HDL you have. For example, smaller LDL molecules are much more likely to lead to arterial plaque than the larger fluffy variety.
When it comes to cholesterol it’s all about balance and type. If your doctor or lipidologist has told you that you have high cholesterol level, I can recommend further tests including an Advanced Lipid Profiling to determine what type of cholesterol you have so it can be targeted more effectively and Genetic Testing to assess your genomic predisposition to cardiovascular diseases.
A plan can then be created to help you restore your cholesterol level to within the healthy range. This might include:
A personalised diet based on the Mediterranean diet, low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in foods that protect cardiovascular health.
Recommendations for specific therapeutic foods and herbs that can support cholesterol management.
Guidance on balancing blood sugar levels as excess sugar in the blood can lead to increased cholesterol levels.
Lifestyle adjustments to help improve cardiovascular health and keep healthy blood pressure levels.