Diseases with high cholesterol. High blood cholesterol in women: causes of increase in girls High cholesterol in men causes and treatment

To control the state of health, each of us undergoes a medical examination. It also includes mandatory blood tests.

An increase in cholesterol levels is a fairly common phenomenon. It occurs more often in men. This is due, as a rule, to the lifestyle, the presence of bad habits and an unbalanced diet with a predominance of fatty and fried foods.

Smoking, alcohol, physical inactivity, constant stress - this and much more negatively affects the health of a man. Problems associated with high cholesterol began to occur already at the age of 35.

What is cholesterol

Translated from ancient Greek, it means "solid bile" and is a complex compound, a natural polycyclic lipophilic alcohol. 80% is produced by the body itself (about 500 milligrams), the rest, 20%, comes from food. Another name for the substance is cholesterol. Most of it is formed in the liver.

The first mention dates back to 1769. In 1859, Marcelin Berthelot proved that a fat-like substance belongs to the class of alcohols.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water and is responsible for the integrity of cell membranes and the production of vitamin D, hormones and bile acids.

Lipoproteins are complex compounds due to which a substance is transported throughout the body. Scientists distinguish 3 types:

Low density ("bad");
high ("good"). It prevents the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
Chylomicrons. They contain triglycerides. Appear in the intestines.

Functions of cholesterol in the body:

restores metabolism;
normalizes the work of internal organs;
helps in the synthesis of sex hormones;
converts vitamin D;
isolates nerve fibers.

Norm of cholesterol in the blood

First of all, the value of cholesterol depends on the age and gender of the patient.

The unit of measure is millimoles per liter of blood.

There are 2 main values - minimum and maximum.

In medicine, there is an interval to which the indicators must correspond. Going beyond often indicates the presence of a disease.

Classification:

Optimal - 5 mmol / l or less.
Moderately elevated cholesterol - 5-6 mmol / l.
Dangerously elevated - 7.8 mmol / l.

In the case of an increase, hypercholesterolemia develops. The norm of OH for women and men is considered to be a value from 3.6 to 6.2 mmol / l.

A low level of HDL indicates a possible atherosclerosis. Scientists say that low cholesterol, like high cholesterol, is very dangerous. People suffering from a lack of an organic compound in the blood are prone to strokes, cancer, and depression.

No less important is the amount of triglycerides (TG). They should not be more than 2.0 mmol per liter in an adult male. The older the patient, the higher the triglyceride rate. An indicator of more than 2.29 mmol / liter indicates a probable disease (IHD, pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, etc.). A low mark occurs with malnutrition, pathology of the kidneys, lungs.

From thirty to forty there is an increase in the content of cholesterol in the blood. After 50, the level of fat in the body of a man levels off.

The danger of high LDL

If the doctor recorded deviations, then certain measures must be taken. In the absence of proper treatment, there are such adverse consequences as:

Atherosclerosis.
Thromboembolism.
Heart failure, ischemia, strokes, heart attacks, angina pectoris.
Hormonal imbalance.
Chronic diseases of the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands.
Violation of cognitive function and cerebral circulation.
Fatal outcome.

It is important for everyone to remember that timely treatment and compliance with medical recommendations is the key to health.

Deviation detection method

To check the condition of the body for the presence of pathologies, a biochemical blood test is performed.

For the reliability of the result, they take it strictly on an empty stomach: exclusion of alcohol and drugs for 24 hours, do not eat - for 12 hours, do not smoke or drink - for 6 hours.

An additional medical examination is required in case of elevated "bad" cholesterol, which indicates atherosclerosis.

Doctors strongly recommend that men after the age of twenty take this analysis once a year, and at an older age it is better to conduct an examination at least once every six months. When a young person has a genetic predisposition to increase this component in the blood, it is very important to do tests constantly in order to monitor the state of health and start the treatment process on time.

Causes of high cholesterol

Why is there high cholesterol in the blood? According to medical data, the factors provoking an increase in the indicators of "solid bile" are the following:

Arterial hypertension;
Excess weight;
Elderly age;
Diabetes;
Heredity;
Thyroid dysfunction;
Sedentary lifestyle;
Improper nutrition;
Cholelithiasis;
stress;
Long-term use of immunosuppressants, etc.

As you can see, the main reason for high cholesterol in the stronger sex is an unhealthy lifestyle.

Symptoms

Increased indicators in a man require immediate treatment. Some external and internal signs of the patient will help to determine it. The first group includes:

spots on the surface of the epidermis;
yellowing of the skin around the eyes;
discomfort in the legs when running or walking.

To self-diagnose the disease, a man should pay attention to xanthelasmas and xanthomas (white and yellowish dots under the skin). They can appear around the eyelids and on other parts of the face and body.

In addition to those listed, the signs of high cholesterol in the male body include early gray hair. If a young representative of the stronger sex began to turn white hair, he should pass the appropriate tests.

Internal features include:

narrowing of the coronary arteries of the heart;
rupture of blood vessels and, as a result, a stroke;
plaque destruction, which can lead to heart failure;
memory impairment;
pain in the region of the heart.

Often, high cholesterol in men does not make itself felt. The problem is discovered during the next visit to the doctor. Therefore, it is very important to systematically undergo medical examinations.

Medical treatment

Medications are prescribed and the cholesterol level is more than 6.5 mmol / l. The doctor prescribes anti-atherogenic (lipipidemic) drugs that block the development of atherosclerosis and minimize the risk of angina pectoris, heart attack, stroke, etc.

There are several groups of medications aimed at lowering "bad" cholesterol:

Statins. They block the synthesis of LDL, thereby reducing the likelihood of atherosclerotic plaque formation. Preparations of this type improve lipid metabolism.
Fibrates help increase a special enzyme that breaks down low-density lipoproteins.
Bile acid sequestrants. They are referred to as ion exchange resins, they stop the absorption of fats in the intestines. The production of new bile acids from the reserves of "bad" cholesterol is launched.
Nicotinic acid preparations increase the level of a useful, high-density substance in the blood.
Dietary supplements to reduce bile are made from natural ingredients. They are safer for the body, have minimal side effects.

Contraindications

Any drugs, including herbal ones, have a number of limitations.

Funds based on fibric acid are not prescribed to young people during puberty, patients with severe liver and kidney failure. They are used with caution and in minimal doses to lower cholesterol in people with diseases of the digestive system and gastrointestinal tract.

Bile acid sequestrants are not recommended for persons with disorders and obstruction of the biliary tract, renal and hepatic insufficiency, predisposition to regular constipation.
Nicotinic acid is contraindicated in chronic forms of hepatitis, serious cardiac arrhythmias, gout and ulcerative lesions of the duodenum and stomach.

cholesterol lowering products

If a man has high cholesterol, then he is recommended to exclude pork, sausages, waterfowl meat, and confectionery from the menu. You should also limit your intake of eggs and cheese. The list of permitted meats includes rabbit meat, veal, turkey or chicken fillet, dairy with a low percentage of fat content. It is necessary to give preference to products of plant origin.

Of great benefit are cereals (oatmeal, buckwheat), nuts, bread made from coarse flour.

We should not forget about products that reduce the indicators of "solid bile":

Vegetable oils (especially olive and unrefined sunflower) used as a dressing.
Meat. Low fat varieties. For example, lamb. It is recommended to cook for a couple or boil.
Beverages. The list of useful ones includes water, freshly squeezed juices, unsweetened compotes.
Cereals. Serve as a source of fiber (bread, loaf). Be sure to include cereals from rice, wheat, buckwheat (in water or low-fat milk, without butter) in your diet.
Fruits (apples, bananas, citrus fruits, grapes, pears, plums).
Berries (strawberries, strawberries, currants, raspberries).
Vegetables (especially carrots, beets, zucchini, Brussels sprouts) fresh and boiled.
Dairy products are low in fat.
Seasonings (except red / black and allspice).

Sports

If a man’s cholesterol levels are not significantly elevated, then you can refrain from taking medication. It is enough to follow a diet and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Sports play an important role in normalizing cholesterol levels. Physical activity helps to lose extra pounds, strengthen muscles. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to engage in exhausting sports. Enough walking in the fresh air. What do doctors recommend?

Start the morning with a charge;
Drink at least 1.5-2 liters of pure non-carbonated water per day;
Eliminate alcohol;
stop smoking;
exercise 2-3 times a week;
walk daily for at least one hour;
end each workout with muscle relaxation;

Remember that the load must be increased gradually. The pulse should not increase more than 15 beats above normal.

A quarter of the world's population suffers from high blood cholesterol. However, few pay attention to this problem. But in vain. After all, an elevated cholesterol level for a long time can lead to the development of serious diseases.

More often the problem concerns women who, due to dieting, deliberately avoid foods containing fats.

This cannot be done. Despite the fact that cholesterol in large quantities can be harmful to health, it is not worth completely eliminating its diet.

What are the causes of high blood cholesterol in women, what are the symptoms and signs of high levels, and what is the treatment for this condition?

What is it and what functions does it perform

Cholesterol, cholesterol is an organic component, a natural fat-soluble compound that is part of the cell wall.

Types of cholesterol:

Low density lipoproteins (LDL) - "bad".
High density lipoproteins (HDL) - "good".

Its main task is to transport substances into the cell and back.

It takes part in the production of female hormones, in the metabolism of fat-soluble vitamins, in the production of vitamin D, protects cell membranes, isolates nerve fibers, is an additional element in the formation of bile products.

30% of cholesterol comes from food, and the rest is produced by the body itself.

Cholesterol analysis - important numbers from the Living Healthy! program:

Reasons for high level

The main reasons due to which the cholesterol index may increase:

smoking;
lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyle;
pregnancy;
frequent use of alcoholic beverages;
diabetes;
hereditary predisposition;
obesity;
kidney disease;
hypertension;
diseases of the pancreas;
chronic increase in blood pressure (hypertension);
liver pathology.

An important source of increased cholesterol is the onset of a menstrual pause. In women, protective functions decrease during this period.

This condition is considered the most favorable for increased deposition of cholesterol in the vessels. Often the symptoms of pathology go unnoticed.

It's all because of the woman's poor health associated with the onset of menopause.

The same can happen during pregnancy. The expectant mother, due to ongoing changes in the body, accompanied by general malaise, may not notice the main problem with cholesterol deposition.

Insofar as during the period of gestation, a woman's production of progesterone increases- a hormone responsible for the deposition of fat - the doctor may recommend that a pregnant woman take a blood test several times to rule out an increase in cholesterol levels.

And what is in the blood of women:

at 20 years old - 3.16-5.6 mmol / l;
at 30 years old - 3.36-5.95 mmol / l;
at 40 years old - 3.81-6.52 mmol / l;
at 50 years old - 4.0-7.3 mmol / l;
at 60 years old - 4.2-7.5 mmol / l;
at 70 years old - 4.48-7.42 mmol / l.

Who is at risk

Doctors think that the causes of pathology can be a sedentary lifestyle, uncontrolled consumption of fatty and high-calorie foods, overeating.

The source of high rates can be long-term use of hormonal contraceptives.

In this case, the age of the woman is also important. Over time, the cholesterol level in the female half of humanity can change.

This process depends on the presence of diseases and pathologies. Uncontrolled intake of alcoholic beverages, smoking, junk food leads to exhaustion of the body.

As a result, a violation of metabolic processes, various diseases and a sharp jump in cholesterol in the blood.

Symptoms

You can recognize an increase in cholesterol in women by the following symptoms:

strong;
the presence of blood clots;
pain and heaviness in the legs at the slightest physical exertion;
the appearance of yellowish spots on the skin and in the eye area (xanthoma);
heart failure.

The increase in cholesterol itself is not accompanied by symptoms: they occur after the development of atherosclerosis - the main consequences of pathology.

Therefore, you need to donate blood for analysis for prevention at least once every 1-5 years.

Possible Complications

Elevated blood cholesterol in a woman for a long time can be quite dangerous and often causes the following pathologies:

coronary heart disease, characterized by impaired blood supply to the myocardium;
heart attack;
angina due to narrowing of the coronary arteries;
stroke.

It is very important to fix the problem at the initial stage. its development, having passed the tests on time and consulting a doctor.

Which doctor to contact

What to do if the analysis showed an elevated cholesterol level in a woman: if there is an assumption that there is a high level of cholesterol in the blood, then need to see a cardiologist.

In his competence is the restoration of the cardiovascular system. After the examination, the doctor will prescribe a blood test, which will allow you to establish the correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

How to be treated

Medications

Elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood will become a source of fatty deposits in the blood vessels.

These deposits will be the source of a decrease in the dynamics of blood flow, due to which the brain and heart no longer receive the right amount of oxygen-rich blood for normal functioning.

Treatment of the disease is based on taking lipid-lowering drugs.

More often, a doctor with hypercholesterolemia (high blood cholesterol in a woman) prescribes the following medications:

Gemfibrozil (Lopid, Hypolixan, Normolil, Gevilon), Fenofibrate, Clofibrate. Available in the form of tablets and capsules. It is prescribed 2 times a day, one capsule (tablet). The drug is contraindicated in pregnant women and people with diseases of the gallbladder.
Vitamin B3, PP and niacin can lower cholesterol levels. Take 2-6 gr. per day, dividing the dose into 3 doses. To prevent fatty degeneration of the liver, methionine is simultaneously prescribed.
High cholesterol can be treated with drugs that belong to the group of bile acid sequestrants. These are Cholestyramine, Questran, Cholestan. Medicines are available in powder form. Assigned usually to 4 gr. 2 times a day.
Drugs belonging to the group of statins are also able to reduce the production of lipoprotein: Fluvastatin, Simvastatin, Pravastatin, Rosuvastatin. Drugs are prescribed at 5-10 mg per day.

Statins can lead to the development of diabetes. Therefore, it is not recommended to independently prescribe drugs that can lower cholesterol levels.

ethnoscience

Therapy with alternative methods can also lower cholesterol levels.

Drink the medicine once a day before meals. Hawthorn color can also reduce cholesterol levels. 2 tbsp. l. dried plants pour a glass of boiling water.

The future medicine should be infused for 20 minutes. It should be taken in a tablespoon 3 times a day. Good reduces cholesterol Caucasian Dioscorea.

Grind the rhizome of the plant and mix in the same amount with honey. Take half a teaspoon 2 to 4 times a day.

The duration of therapy is 10 days. Walnut leaves are also effective in pathology.

Grind 5 sheets and pour 500 ml of boiling water. The decoction is infused for 1 hour. Take half a glass 3 times a day before meals.

How to lower your blood cholesterol levels:

What not to do when you get promoted

To reduce high blood cholesterol levels in women, Avoid the following products:

Salo;
lamb, pork;
yolks;
offal;
beef, veal;
margarine;
coffee;
canned food;
mayonnaise;
duck meat;
sausages, sausages;
easily digestible carbohydrates (sweets, pastries, cakes);
fast food;
sour-milk and dairy products of high fat content.

Should be excluded from the diet fatty, fried, spicy and spicy dishes.

How to eat: compiling a diet menu

To support the production of "good" cholesterol and resist the formation of "bad", you should eat foods containing fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fats (omega-3, omega-6, omega-9) and pectin.

"Good" cholesterol is found in fatty fish - mackerel, tuna. Eating fish 2 times a week in the amount of 100 g boiled, you can reduce the risk of blood clots, keep the blood in a diluted state.

It is better to dress salads with olive, sesame or linseed oil. Olives will be helpful.

Before buying, you need to pay attention to the inscription. The packaging must indicate that the product does not contain genetically modified substances.

This is a very fatty food, which for the most part is polyunsaturated, that is, very healthy. It is worth eating 30 grams of nuts per day.

Fiber is very useful in this case. This component is found in vegetables, seeds, bran, whole grains, fruits, legumes, greens.

Daily use of 2-3 teaspoons of bran (they drink a glass of water), you can quickly reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood.

Products containing pectin remove excess cholesterol from blood vessels. A lot of the substance is found in apples, seeds, citrus fruits, beets.

Green tea can balance the level of "bad" and "good" cholesterol. Mineral water has the same properties.

Drinks include juices: orange, pineapple, apple, grapefruit, beet and carrot. Start by taking one teaspoon a day.

Should be consumed daily low fat dairy products.

Food processing is important: in case of pathology, it is necessary steam food.

How to prevent

People who lead an active lifestyle have lower levels of "bad" cholesterol. Sport keeps the vessels in good shape.

If you go jogging or brisk walking 3-5 times a week, then you can avoid high cholesterol.

Cheerfulness and harmony with others also reduces the likelihood of the formation of "bad" cholesterol.

Don't forget about weight control, since obesity is a fundamental factor in the occurrence of diseases of the cardiovascular system and, as a result, an increase in cholesterol.

Elevated cholesterol levels in women can be the cause of many diseases and pathologies.

Therefore so it is important to take care of your health- visit a gynecologist, a cardiologist more often and take blood tests.

Hypercholesterolemia is an increased amount of cholesterol in the body of a man, which can cause pathological conditions of the cardiovascular system. For most members of the stronger sex, the risk of disease due to high cholesterol begins around the age of 20 and increases every year.

The situation is aggravated in the presence of various associated diseases, in particular, diabetes. People who have been diagnosed with diabetes should keep their cholesterol levels under constant control.

In diabetes, an increase in lipoprotein readings is possible. This is due to the fact that some organs change their functionality, causing an increase in cholesterol levels. The consequence of this can be all sorts of complications that will negatively affect the course of diabetes.

Functions and types of cholesterol in the body

Cholesterol is responsible for a number of processes occurring in the human body:

Takes part in the construction and maintenance of cell membranes;
Responsible for the selective permeability of cell membranes;
Participates in the production of sex and other hormones;
Promotes the synthesis of vitamin D;
Protects and isolates nerve fibers in the human body;
It is one of the main substances in the metabolism of vitamins A, E and K.

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is deposited in the liver and other organs. Most of it is produced by the human body, but some is obtained from food.

The body of a man needs cholesterol, but a limited amount is required.

There are several types of cholesterol that differ functionally. In cases where there is an excess of certain types in the blood, fatty cholesterol plaques are deposited on the walls of the arteries. This is an unfavorable process that contributes to blocking the blood flow to the heart muscle, reducing its supply of oxygen.

The cholesterol that blocks the arteries is called LDL, or low-density lipoprotein. They harm the human body and their increased number negatively affects the health of people, exacerbating diabetes and causing the emergence of new diseases. Another type of cholesterol is high-density lipoprotein, or HDL. Its main function is to remove bad cholesterol, which is why it is known as good cholesterol.

To be healthy, you need to maintain a normal balance of bad cholesterol and good.

Norm of cholesterol in the blood

Sugar level

The norm of cholesterol can fluctuate in the range of 3.6-7.8 mmol / l. It depends on the age of the man, his general physical condition. However, most physicians agree that any cholesterol level above 6 mmol/L should be considered elevated and a health risk.

There are special tables that reflect the norms of cholesterol for men, depending on age.

Classification of blood cholesterol levels:

Optimal. The presence of lipoprotein does not exceed 5 mmol / l;
Moderately elevated. It is characterized by a cholesterol level ranging from 5 to 6 mmol / l;
Dangerously high cholesterol. The cholesterol content is above 7 mmol / l.

Causes of high cholesterol in men

There are several reasons that can affect the increase in cholesterol in the blood of a man:

The presence of a hereditary predisposition;
Overweight problems;
Smoking, which has a negative effect on the body as a whole;
Age-related changes that occur in the body of men over 45;
The presence of hypertension;
The presence of heart disease;
Sedentary lifestyle;
Wrong nutrition.
Diabetes mellitus type 1.

In addition, excessive alcohol consumption often affects the excess cholesterol in men.

Consequences of high blood cholesterol

Elevated cholesterol levels cause a more severe course of diseases that a man already has, and also lead to the development of pathologies of the heart and vascular system. Consider the most common complications.

Stroke and myocardial infarction. This happens for the reason that due to the formation of blood clots, access to the brain and heart is blocked. As a result of the fact that blood does not enter them, tissue death occurs;

Atherosclerosis, which is a blockage of the arteries;

Angina, characterized by insufficient saturation of the heart muscle with oxygen;

Violation of cerebral circulation.

The main danger of high cholesterol in men is that it does not show any symptoms. Therefore, for the prevention of this disease, it is recommended to undergo regular examinations and take tests for the level of fat.

A blood test will help identify the symptoms of high cholesterol and take the necessary measures in a timely manner.

Signs of high cholesterol

There are a number of signs, but they appear already in the presence of diseases caused by a deviation from the norm of cholesterol:

Heart failure;
Thrombosis;
yellowing of the skin around the eyes;
Cerebral circulation disorders.

All of the listed pathologies of the human condition indicate that the body contains an increased level of organic compounds.

Diagnosis and treatment methods

The norm of cholesterol in the blood in men, as well as deviations from it, is determined using diagnostic procedures. To do this, you need to take a blood test from a finger or a vein. Based on the data obtained, the doctor draws conclusions and makes a conclusion about the level of cholesterol.

Diagnosis is mandatory in the presence of all kinds of heart diseases; people suffering from diabetes; with kidney and liver disease; for persons over 35 years of age.

In order to lower the level of cholesterol in the blood, it is necessary to comprehensively approach this problem. The main points to be emphasized are:

Constant adherence to a diet, optimally observe;
Regular physical activity;
Treatment with drugs and medications if necessary.

A diet with a high cholesterol index is aimed at eliminating foods high in fat from the diet.

The basic rules of the diet are:

Preference should be given to lean meats, while there should be no fat on it, there should be no skin on the chicken. The best option would be to replace meat with pockmarked or poultry;
It is necessary to consume the maximum amount of products of plant origin, while salads should be dressed only with vegetable oils, with the exception of palm oil. This is due to the fact that cholesterol is found only in animal products;
Of great benefit is the use of cereals, especially oatmeal, buckwheat;
The diet necessarily includes various varieties of nuts;
Bread and other flour products are prepared from coarse flour;
Egg yolks are allowed to be consumed no more than 2-3 per week, the amount of proteins is not limited;
Eating seafood is allowed;
When cooking, it is best to boil or steam it, and fried foods should be avoided;
Minimize or refuse coffee consumption, replacing it with tea;
The use of dried fruits is not recommended;
Drinking alcohol is contraindicated, with the exception of red wine.

It is important to remember that only a complete and well-composed menu, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, will help to reduce the amount of cholesterol and achieve its normal level. In some cases, dietary supplements will help lower cholesterol.

The necessary diet, the use of folk or drug treatments, are prescribed by a doctor only after receiving the results of an analysis for cholesterol levels. Be sure to get expert advice. Self-medication is unacceptable for both low and high cholesterol levels in the blood.

How to lower blood cholesterol levels is described in the video in this article.

Thanks to various promotions of healthy eating, it is a well-known fact that cholesterol is the main threatening factor for the development of such a formidable disease with its complications as atherosclerosis. However, how much truth is in this phrase from a medical point of view? Let's try to figure this out.

Introduction

So, atherosclerosis is a serious disease of the cardiovascular system, affecting almost 100% of the population by 50 (in men)-60 (in women) years. It develops gradually and is dangerous for human life, not so much by its presence, but by the complications that form against its background. And the high content of cholesterol in the blood, which is found in all patients with this disease, is not its cause at all. The fact is that all pathological changes in the vessels cannot fundamentally develop if they are initially healthy. And if a person has been diagnosed with arterial hypertension or diabetes mellitus for a long time, if the patient abuses smoking or alcohol, leads a sedentary lifestyle or is obese, then all the changes inherent in atherosclerosis will gradually begin to occur on the basis of already existing violations of the vascular wall. And if initially cholesterol in the blood is elevated, then only all this together will cause the development of the disease.

Risk factors

In addition to those already mentioned, there are other risk factors for atherosclerosis. First of all, this is the gender and age category of patients. It has been scientifically proven that atherosclerosis more often affects men, especially those over the age of 50-55 years, in women - less often, older than 60-65 years. This is explained by the different amount of production of estrogens, female sex hormones, which are present in both sexes, but prevailing at times, of course, in women. The action of these biologically active substances is manifested in the utilization of all excess lipids and cholesterol from the blood stream to the fat depot and liver with the help of special transporters - high-density lipoproteins. By the way, their formation is also increased under the influence of estrogens, which leads to a later development of the disease in women. However, after menopause, the amount of hormones begins to decrease, and then women will already be prone to atherosclerosis on an equal basis with men, especially if initially cholesterol in the blood is elevated. But this may already be due to nutritional deficiencies, that is, the use of fatty meat, fried, high-calorie foods.

Pathomorphology of atherosclerosis

So, what are the changes that occur in the vessels, which eventually show signs of high cholesterol in the blood? And the answer is not so complicated. The fact is that normally the wall of the arteries is smooth, shiny, easily extensible due to the muscle layer and elastic fibers, and under the influence of special factors, it can both expand and narrow.

And if it was initially damaged under the influence of the above atherogenic factors (smoking, alcohol, diabetes, hypertension, old age), then it begins to be saturated with fats in the bloodstream. This is how the first stage develops - lipid stripes and spots.

Stages of development

Then the condition worsens, here the total cholesterol in the blood is already elevated. The thing is that the number of those of its transporters is also increasing, which normally carry it into the wall of blood vessels - the so-called. low and very low density lipoproteins. And gradually, the arteries are more and more saturated with fat and cholesterol, until these spots begin to protrude above the surface of the wall, i.e. an atherosclerotic plaque is formed, which gradually increases in size, becomes covered with a fibrin cap and thereby stabilizes. However, if at this stage a person continues to harm his health, then this calm plaque begins to be damaged. It ulcerates, the lid can come off completely, and the same pathological changes occur in other parts of the vessel wall.

Outcome of the disease

Cholesterol in the blood is increased many times, its transporters only manage to remove it into the tissues, and the liver cannot cope with its excess. Because of all these damages, the vessels lose their extensibility, become more sensitive to vasoconstrictors (factors that narrow them), arterial hypertension increases, and the main “pump” begins to suffer. Atherosclerosis also damages vessels of ever smaller caliber, the most important of which are coronary (the heart's own arteries) and cerebral. The plaques that block the blood flow and narrow the lumen of the arteries keep growing, and eventually there is a sharp ischemia of the organs. The most threatening conditions against this background are myocardial infarction and

At any stage of the development of atherosclerosis, the stabilization of the condition and the prevention of the development of the most dangerous complications primarily depend on the patient's consciousness. If initially there was no elevated cholesterol in the blood, if the patient did not aggravate his condition by the abuse of toxic substances, tobacco and alcohol, led a mobile lifestyle and brought his weight at least a little closer to normal, then the progression of this life-threatening disease would stop. Therefore, the doctor should, first of all, recommend to the patient to adjust his regimen and nutrition, to engage in physical culture, if possible, to spend his weekends in nature, and not on the couch in front of the TV. Give up smoking and taking alcohol-containing drinks, eat more vegetables, fruits, natural juices, meat, cook food mainly by steaming or using the boiled method. Thus, it is necessary to eliminate the causes of high cholesterol in the blood by all means, and then deal with the treatment of the existing background disease. In extreme cases, special drugs are used to stabilize its concentration - statins.

The main reason is malnutrition.

Now let's take a look at the blood. The main reason for this is, of course, poor human nutrition, which is why this substance, which is necessary for the synthesis of many hormones and the formation of a cell membrane, is not properly utilized and circulates in the blood as part of its transporters. And, most importantly, it is there in excess. So, there are foods that increase cholesterol in the blood. First of all, it is, of course, fatty meats - beef and pork. Moreover, it should be remembered that even in their fillet enough cholesterol is hidden. Further, this is poultry meat - geese, ducks, turkeys.

Other products

Thirdly, these are eggs, mayonnaise prepared on their basis and high-calorie dairy products - butter, sour cream (especially homemade), cheese, full-fat yogurt. However, it should be remembered here that cholesterol is concentrated in the yolk, but egg white is mandatory for humans, since it contains essential amino acids and is 100% absorbed, so you can only eat the white part of the egg or limit the amount to one or two pieces per week. And the top of the list of junk food, not only in terms of atherogenic effect, is semi-finished products, industrial baked goods and fast food. Other foods that increase blood cholesterol are processed meats. That is, sausages, sausages, boiled pork, ham and other types of smoked meats.

What to do?

Of course, the main question that worries patients if high cholesterol was found in their biochemical blood test: "What should I do?" First, transfer it (analysis) to your doctor so that he can conduct other laboratory and instrumental studies to make your diagnosis and prescribe corrective treatment. However, it is in your power to help him a lot in this. Namely, to reduce this most elevated cholesterol. What to do with your diet in order to achieve normalization of indicators, you will be prompted by a therapeutic diet (table) No. 10c. It is indicated for all patients with ischemic heart disease and hypertension due to atherosclerotic vascular disease.

Diet number 10-C

Its goal is to prevent further development of the disease, namely: to reduce excess weight, provide all energy needs without overloading internal organs, improve metabolism and blood circulation of the heart and brain so that heart attack and stroke are excluded. Since the treatment of high cholesterol in the blood largely depends on nutrition! In it, first of all, the content of animal fats and those carbohydrates that are easily digested are sharply reduced. In addition, the amount of water and table salt consumed, and, of course, cholesterol, is limited. And, on the contrary, the content of the most important trace elements for the heart (potassium, magnesium), vitamins (B and C), and dietary fiber is increased. Food is mainly prepared by boiled and stewed methods. In addition, fractional frequent meals are recommended - in 4-5 doses per day.

Main part

In detail, with this diet, products from muffin or puff pastry, any broths (except for vegetables, but not legumes), fatty meats and poultry, as well as canned food, sausages, smoked meats and brains, are completely excluded from the patient's diet, the same applies salted or smoked fish and caviar, high-fat dairy products (cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream). In addition, it is very important not to consume chocolate, ice cream and confectionery with cream, mustard and pepper, fish, meat and mushroom sauces, strong coffee, tea or cocoa. On the contrary, it is recommended: soups (in milk or vegetable broth), boiled or baked dishes from lean meats, fish and poultry, similar types of cheese, cottage cheese or sour cream, cereals (buckwheat, oatmeal, millet, barley), cabbage is very welcome in any form, as well as zucchini, eggplant, pumpkin, potatoes or green peas.

Snacks and desserts

Salads are recommended with oil dressing: vinaigrettes, seaweed, seafood. And in its raw form, it is better to use lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes and herbs, various fruits, except for those that contain glucose in excess. Of the drinks, dried fruit compotes, as well as fresh juices, are most welcome. Of course, it is extremely difficult to switch to a diet so abruptly, but deviation from it and errors can dramatically worsen the patient's health. Therefore, in order to still stop in the blood and adhere to therapeutic nutrition, there are several simple tricks.

Special Moves

First, you should remove from your eyes all those foods that are strictly prohibited in the diet. Better yet, if you stop buying them. The fewer of them in the refrigerator, the less risk of eating them. Second, learn how to walk to the grocery store the right way. Always make a list at home and strictly follow it, and in the supermarket, try to stay closer to the walls, since all processed foods are usually located in the center: sausages, canned food, fast food, and so on. And when you buy something, first of all, carefully read the composition and calorie content. Also, every time you go to the store, be sure to buy those vegetables or fruits that you have not bought for a long time, and eat them fresh at home or cook healthy dishes from them. Try to switch from the usual animal fats to those found in sea fish, nuts and olive oil. Not only will they not harm your diet, but on the contrary, they will lower your blood cholesterol levels due to their structure. Never exclude meat from your diet. It is vital, just learn how to choose it correctly. Choose lean poultry (chicken, turkey) and lean beef or rabbit. Cook dishes from sea fish more often, bake it in the oven, steam it with vegetables, add it to salads and snacks. Snack at work not with a fresh banana or a couple of apples, this will better saturate you and charge you with energy and vitamins before a full meal. It is advisable to write down in a special notebook everything that you ate during the day, since losing excess weight is the first and most important step in keeping your body healthy!

Not many people understand why cholesterol can be harmful to health, but if we look at a biochemical blood test in more detail, we can understand that there are two different cholesterols, most of the good cholesterol is produced by our liver and is useful, while the bad gets to us with food, and usually harm the body. Both substances have a normal level, if bad cholesterol in the blood becomes more than normal, this can lead to the development of serious vascular and heart diseases in men.

When light cholesterol enters the bloodstream, it can settle on the walls of blood vessels, thereby narrowing the lumen in the arteries, and then a complete blockage of the vessel occurs. When forgotten, it cannot pass blood, which means that one of the organs simply does not receive enough blood and its functionality will decrease.

What don't we know yet?

Above, we have already talked about the fact that cholesterol forms plaques on the walls of arteries and vessels, when deposits become too large, they can completely clog the vessel, or its patency will be minimal. At this point, less blood begins to flow to various organs in the body, mainly in the liver, kidneys, brain and heart. It is not uncommon for a thrombus to come off a plaque, there is no symptom of this disease, but this clot clogs the vessel completely, which leads to the cessation of blood and oxygen circulation in the organ, and its stop. When a blood clot breaks off near the heart, it can travel through the vessel to the heart muscle, causing almost instantaneous death of the patient.

When a blood clot blocks the vessels that feed the brain, this immediately leads to a stroke, it is in men that the manifestation of heart attacks and strokes is most often observed due to the fact that the vessels were blocked by plaques from bad cholesterol. In addition, if high cholesterol is not controlled, it can provoke the development of atherosclerosis, all these diseases are considered the most deadly, since they have one of the highest mortality rates worldwide, for this reason, doctors recommend at least every six months to find out the level your blood cholesterol.

Today, in laboratories, you can not only find out the norm of your cholesterol in the blood, but also make a more detailed analysis, if the general analysis shows the norm, then you will not have to do a second test. In the event that the patient's norm is significantly exceeded, the doctor prescribes a detailed analysis, which will show the amount of harmful and beneficial substances in the blood.

In men after thirty years, the cholesterol rate should not be higher than 6.5 mmol per liter of blood, if the indicators are higher, then the cholesterol is considered too high, in which case the doctor may prescribe a certain treatment to lower this indicator. Every year, the cholesterol rate can increase, after sixty years the rate is considered to be from 4.06 to 7.19 mmol per liter, this figure is slightly higher than what is the norm for younger people.

What are the reasons for high cholesterol?

Quite often, with age, men in the blood experience a significant increase in cholesterol, for this reason, doctors highly recommend starting to monitor the analysis of this substance after the age of twenty, especially if the young man has a genetic predisposition to such a disease. Of course, genes can play a significant role in a man's health, but there are many extraneous factors that negatively affect the amount of cholesterol in the blood. In most cases, it is enough for a young person to change the diet and rhythm of life in order to normalize this component in the blood.

From these products you can make an excellent diet for several weeks of treatment, but it is best to stick to proper nutrition all the time so that in the end cholesterol does not begin to exceed its levels again. Proper food and constant physical activity will not only reduce the harmful substance in the blood, but also help prevent the development of heart and vascular diseases.