The accumulation of lipids such as cholesterol characterizes atherosclerosis, the main cause of coronary heart disease and is classified according to its density.
- HDL cholesterol = high-density lipoprotein
- LDL cholesterol = low-density lipoprotein
HDL cholesterol is a biomarker for assessing cardiovascular risk and is responsible for maintaining the arterial wall in good condition as it controls the transport of reverse cholesterol, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, vasodilator and antithrombotic effects.
LDL cholesterol should remain within safe limits as its increase can lead to cardiovascular disease.
Components that help in anti-cholesterolemic action are substances that can help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. Here are some examples
- Statins. Medications like atorvastatin and simvastatin reduce cholesterol production in the liver.
- Soluble Fiber. Found in foods like oats, barley, legumes, and fruit, soluble fiber can help reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
- Niacin (Vitamin B3). Can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids. Found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, they can reduce triglycerides and improve heart health.
- Phytosterols and Phytostanols. Found in some vegetable oils, nuts, and whole grains, they can reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
- Green Tea. Contains antioxidants that can help lower LDL cholesterol.
- Garlic. Has been shown to reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.
- Soy. Soy-based foods can help lower LDL cholesterol.
- Policosanols. Extracted from sugar cane or beeswax, they can help lower LDL cholesterol.
- Regular Physical Exercise. Physical activity can improve cholesterol levels by increasing HDL cholesterol and reducing LDL cholesterol.
The reports provided on Tiiips website are for informational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.
Components that can contribute to or exacerbate cholesterolemic action include various dietary, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Here are some examples
- Foods High in Saturated Fats. Foods like red meats, full-fat dairy products, and certain oils can increase LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
- Trans Fats. Found in some processed foods, packaged snacks, and margarines, trans fats can increase LDL cholesterol and decrease HDL (good) cholesterol.
- Lack of Physical Activity. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to higher LDL cholesterol levels and lower HDL levels.
- Smoking. Smoking can lower HDL cholesterol and increase the risk of plaque formation in the arteries.
- Alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to increased levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood.
- Diet High in Sugars and Refined Carbohydrates. Foods high in sugars and refined carbs can contribute to increased triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels.
- Obesity. A higher body mass index is associated with higher LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Age and Genetics. Aging and genetic predisposition can influence cholesterol levels.
- Chronic Stress. Prolonged stress can negatively impact cholesterol levels and heart health.
Studies
Association of dietary lipid intake with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels: analysis of two independent population-based studies. Kwon YJ, Lee HS, Chang HJ, Koh SB, Lee JW. Eur J Nutr. 2019 Oct 10. doi: 10.1007/s00394-019-02104-3
Red Wine Consumption and Cardiovascular Health. Castaldo L, Narváez A, Izzo L, Graziani G, Gaspari A, Minno GD, Ritieni A. Molecules. 2019 Oct 8;24(19). pii: E3626. doi: 10.3390/molecules24193626.
Recent Update to the Cholesterol Treatment Guidelines: A Comparison With International Guidelines. Nayor M, Vasan RS. Circulation 2016; 133(18): 1795-806. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.116.021407 [ Links ]
Effects of rosuvastatin on the immune system in healthy volunteers with normal serum cholesterol. Karmaus PW, Shi M, Perl S, Biancotto A, Candia J, Cheung F, Kotliarov Y, Young N, Fessler MB; CHI Consortium. JCI Insight. 2019 Nov 1;4(21). pii: 131530. doi: 10.1172/jci.insight.131530
