Cholesterol is a fatty substance that’s found in our blood.
While the body uses it to keep the metabolism working, too much of it can lead to serious health problems.
High cholesterol often goes undiagnosed, which is worrying considering it causes heart attack and stroke risk.
Here’s how to tell if you are suffering from it – and how to lower your reading.
What is high cholesterol?
High cholesterol is one of Britain’s biggest health concerns.
Those battling the ailment have an excess of lipid in their bodies, which can trigger other health concerns.
Heart attack, stroke and coronary heart disease are among the serious problems patients may develop.
What are the symptoms of high cholesterol and how is it diagnosed?
Worryingly, those who have high cholesterol are often completely unaware that they do.
As the health problem shows no symptoms, it often goes unnoticed.
To check if you’re at risk, it’s best to visit your local GP.
They may then carry out a blood test, which will reveal if your cholesterol levels are unhealthy.
How to lower cholesterol
To talk about cholesterol, and work out if you need to lower it, consult your GP.
Making other diet changes can also help to reduce your heart attack risk.
The NHS recommends eating foods that are high in unsaturated fat.
These include oily fish, avocados, nuts and olive oil.
Meanwhile, saturated products should be avoided as these can clog the arteries.
Smokers should consider kicking the habit as it can lead to the narrowing of the arteries.
And according to the NHS, “doing 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every week can improve your cholesterol levels”.
If these lifestyle changes don’t help, your doctor may recommend medication.
Cholesterol-lowering statins are often prescribed to patients who are at risk of heart problems or stroke.
- High cholesterol
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