CHOLESTEROL AND YOUR HEART

WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR HEALTH, ESPECIALLY THAT OF YOUR HEART, CHOLESTEROL TAKES CENTER STAGE AS A CRITICAL PLAYER.

We often hear about the importance of managing cholesterol for heart health, but what exactly is cholesterol, and how does it affect one of the body’s most vital organs, the one that keeps us ticking – the heart?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and is essential for good health by playing a role in many of the body’s physiological functions. It serves as a structural component of cell membranes and acts as a precursor for essential hormones, but when there is excess cholesterol in the blood, often due to lifestyle factors such as the types of foods we eat, problems can occur.

It is the dual nature of cholesterol that has led to the concept of good and bad cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) are the two primary types of cholesterol. HDL, often dubbed the “good” cholesterol, scavenges excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, transporting it to the liver for elimination. LDL, or the “bad” cholesterol, can build up in arterial walls, forming plaque that narrows blood vessels and restricts blood flow.

This intricate balance becomes crucial when considering heart health. The heart, a tireless muscle working ceaselessly to pump blood throughout the body, is particularly susceptible to the impact of cholesterol imbalance.

LDL cholesterol, if left unchecked, can contribute to atherosclerosis – a condition where plaque accumulates in the arteries, impeding blood flow to the heart. Reduced blood supply to the heart muscle can lead to chest pain or angina, a warning sign that the heart isn’t receiving an adequate oxygen supply.

If a plaque ruptures, it can trigger a blood clot, causing a complete blockage of blood flow, resulting in a heart attack. Understanding cholesterol’s role is pivotal, but so is recognising the interplay of lifestyle factors. Diet, exercise, and genetics collectively contribute to cholesterol levels.

Diets high in saturated and trans fats can elevate LDL cholesterol, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain a balance. Exercise is also essential in the battle against cholesterol. Regular physical activity not only raises HDL cholesterol but also contributes to overall cardiovascular health. A sedentary lifestyle, in contrast, can contribute to weight gain and increased levels of cholesterol, adding another layer of risk to heart health.

Genetics can also influence cholesterol levels. Some individuals may inherit conditions that predispose them to high cholesterol, underscoring the importance of personalised approaches to heart health. Regular cholesterol screenings are essential for early detection and intervention. Fortunately, cholesterol can very often be managed by adopting healthy lifestyle choices. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, and high in fiber, found in foods such as oats and beans, can actively contribute to managing cholesterol levels. Incorporating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables in your diet provides an arsenal of nutrients and antioxidants to combat arterial damage. Quitting smoking is also one of the best things you can do for your heart health. Smoking not only damages blood vessels but also lowers HDL cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Like many things in life, cholesterol must be in balance to work for you instead of against you. Regular screening and adherence to a healthy diet and exercise regime are the best things you can do to manage your cholesterol levels and take care for your heart.

Dr Ben Anderson MBBS BMedSci FRACS | Specialist at John Flynn and Pindara Private Hospitals, The Tweed Hospital and consulting at Goonellabah Medical Centre | heartsurgerygoldcoast.com.au

Phone: 07 5598 0789