High cholesterol in the blood treatment. Nitric oxide plays an important role in the body. What Foods Help Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol is present in all tissues of the human and animal body. It is an integral part of cell membranes, being part of soluble lipoproteins that constantly circulate in the blood and lymph. Cholesterol is such an important substance that without it the existence of a living organism becomes impossible, just like without oxygen or water.

Cholesterol: what is it?

Cholesterol is organic compound- hydrocarbon, belongs to the class of fatty alcohols. The chemical name is cholesterol pure form Are these crystals white color having no taste and smell. AT human body cholesterol is synthesized independently and enters it with food of animal origin: meat, offal, fish, milk and eggs. The production of most of the cholesterol, about 80%, occurs in the liver, the rest of its amount is formed in the walls of the intestines, adrenal glands, skin, and some other organs.

Cholesterol in its pure form cannot be transported throughout the body, as it is insoluble in water. The transport of cholesterol in the body is made possible by proteins with which it forms compounds called lipoproteins. Lipoproteins are heterogeneous in their structure, among them there are 4 main types that differ from each other in density and mass.

From the point of view of practical medicine, low-density cholesterol, which is part of low molecular weight lipoproteins, and cholesterol are isolated. high density, which forms lipoproteins with a large molecular weight in the blood plasma. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) play a major role in the development of atherosclerosis. reduced content high density liporproteins (HDL).

The role of cholesterol in the human body

The body of an average person contains about 350 grams of cholesterol: 90% in the cell membranes of absolutely all tissues in an unbound state and 10% in the blood plasma as part of lipoproteins. Most cholesterol is found in the head and spinal cord, in the myelin sheath of nerve endings. In the liver, bile acids are synthesized from it, without which the normal digestion of fats that make up food is impossible. For these purposes, about 70% of all cholesterol formed in the body per day is spent.

Cholesterol is the main raw material for the synthesis of steroid and sex hormones. In men, a lack of cholesterol in the body leads to severe sexual disorders, and in women, amenorrhea may occur. Especially not justified is the fight against cholesterol in childbearing age, and especially during pregnancy, because before the onset of menopause, female sex hormones prevent the deposition of cholesterol on the walls of the arteries.

As for pregnant women, it is simply unacceptable for them to fight cholesterol, as this can lead to severe intrauterine development disorders. Very important normal level cholesterol in infants and early age, its deficiency threatens the development of rickets, due to a violation of the synthesis of vitamin D.

What is dangerous high cholesterol in the blood?

Dangerous is high cholesterol in the blood, which is part of low-density lipoproteins. It is the lipoproteins that have low density have an atherogenic effect. They are one of the main risk factors in the development of atherosclerosis. LDL poses the greatest threat to the cardiovascular system. The cholesterol contained in them precipitates relatively easily and, being deposited on the endothelium of the arteries, forms cholesterol plaques, which is main reason development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic changes in the arteries lead to the development of such cordially- vascular diseases:

• ischemic heart disease (CHD);
• angina;
• myocardial infarction;
• obliterating endarteritis;
• acute disorders of cerebral circulation;
• hypertension, etc.

These diseases often lead to lethal outcome and are the leading cause of disability in most countries.

Why is cholesterol in the blood elevated?

The main causes of high cholesterol are acquired:

• wrong way of life of the patient: hypodynamia, smoking, alcohol abuse, frequent stressful situations;
• culinary addictions: constant consumption of fatty foods, animal origin, insufficient amount of fresh vegetables and fruits in the diet;
• comorbidities: obesity, diabetes, systemic diseases connective tissue;
• some physiological conditions (for example, the causes of high cholesterol in women are most often hormonal changes in the body during menopause).

An increase in cholesterol is noted in people with a hereditary predisposition, when close relatives suffer from atherosclerosis. As people age, the risk of hypercholesterolemia increases significantly. Male sex is also a risk factor.

Cholesterol indicators

Most often, people learn that they have high cholesterol when symptoms develop, atherosclerotic lesions of the arteries. Health problems that have arisen force a person to seek help from a doctor. For the most informative idea of ​​the content of total cholesterol in the blood plasma, as well as the ratio of bad and good cholesterol, a biochemical study is performed - the determination of the lipid profile. The most common indications for such a study are the appearance of signs of high cholesterol in a patient:

• disorders of cerebral circulation;
• cardiac ischemia;
• hypertonic disease;
• obesity;
• kidney and liver diseases.

The lipid profile includes the following indicators:

1. total cholesterol(total cholesterol) is the main blood lipid, it is synthesized by hepatocytes, and also enters the body with food. This indicator is one of the most important lipid profile, and most fully reflects the fat metabolism in the body, and also indirectly indicates the risk of developing atherosclerosis. The norm is the content of cholesterol at the level of 3.3 - 5.5 mmol / l;
2. low density lipoproteins (LDL) are one of the most atherogenic lipid fractions. The norm of LDL is 1.7 - 3.6 mmol / l;
3. high-density lipoproteins (HDL) - this fraction of lipids has positive action on the body, preventing the appearance of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries. Anti-atherogenic effect HDL is determined by their ability to carry cholesterol to the liver, for its subsequent utilization and excretion from the body through the intestines. Norm HDL is not less than 0.9 mmol/l;
4. triglycerides - neutral fats blood plasma. The norm is 0.4 - 2.2 mmol / l.
5. atherogenicity index (atherogenicity coefficient) - an indicator characterizing the ratio of harmful (atherogenic) and good (antiatherogenic) lipid fractions. Atherogenicity coefficient norm: no more than 3.5.

AT recent times it became possible to check the cholesterol content without visiting a biochemical laboratory. This can be done using a device for measuring cholesterol at home. A home cholesterol meter is quite easy to use. It is recommended to start periodically checking the level of lipids from the age of 25.

What to do if blood cholesterol is high?

We have already found out what causes the cholesterol content to rise, which means that it can be influenced by eliminating the main risk factors. With total cholesterol at the level of 6.6 - 7.7 mmol / l, it is necessary to review your diet and make lifestyle adjustments, if the level is 8.8 - 9.9 (LDL more than 4.4) mmol / l, then this already a cause for concern, and it is best to consult a doctor in such a situation.

How to treat high cholesterol?

First of all, it is necessary to refuse bad habits and adhere to a healthy lifestyle, maximize physical activity. In terms of diet, you will have to significantly limit foods that are a source of bad cholesterol: animal fats, including fatty dairy products, eggs, meat products, and pork. For drug treatment different medicines are used pharmacological groups: statins, nicotinic acid derivatives, fiboates, bile acid sequestrants and others.

How to increase good cholesterol in the blood?

For this purpose, it is most effective to eat foods such as:

• cold sea fish (salmon, tuna, trout, cod, mackerel, sardine and others);
• use more different vegetable oils, animal fat should be completely replaced by them;
• legumes, high in fiber;
• fresh fruits, berries, vegetables and nuts should be eaten daily.

Cholesterol 9.0 mmol/l is very dangerous indicator, which speaks of malfunctions in the body in which lipids accumulate. It urgently needs to be lowered, since for a long time elevated level This substance increases the risk of serious diseases: stroke, heart attack, angina pectoris.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of lipid (a compound from the category of fatty alcohols), which in their consistency resemble beeswax. This substance is contained in meninges, cells and nerves. It participates in metabolic processes body, including the production of hormones. Cholesterol is carried in the bloodstream throughout the body.

What is cholesterol?

There is an opinion that if the norm of a substance is exceeded in the blood, there is a threat of the appearance of atherosclerotic plaques that settle on the walls of blood vessels. Is this really so, Is there a link between cholesterol and diseases such as heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosis? What is the highest cholesterol level a person can have? Let's try to understand all these questions in detail.

The role of cholesterol in the body

Cholesterol has an undeserved reputation as a harmful substance. In fact, it plays an important role in the human body. The liver produces 80% of cholesterol, the remaining 20 people get by eating foods containing it. This fatty alcohol is one of the main components of cells, located in its plasma membrane (outer layer).

Sometimes you can find another name for the substance - "cholesterol". Translated from the Greek "chole" means "bile", and "stereos" means "hard or hard".

A large amount of cholesterol is found in animal products: meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. Vegetables, fruits and mushrooms do not contain this component.

atherosclerotic plaques

What is the role of cholesterol, and what are its functions?

1. Participates in the process of bile production.
2. Converts sunlight into vitamin D.
3. Forms and strengthens the cell membrane, prevents the crystallization of carbohydrate compounds in these membranes.
4. Responsible for the permeability of cell walls, regulates which molecules can penetrate through them and which cannot.
5. Cholesterol is one of important elements involved in the synthesis of cortisol, aldosterone, corticosterone - those hormones that are secreted by the adrenal glands. The production of androgens and estrogens is also not complete without cholesterol.
6. Participates in metabolic processes, especially in the absorption of vitamins A, D, K, E, since they all belong to the group of fat-soluble substances.
7. Protects the tissues of nerve cells.

Lipoproteins - what is it?

Lipoproteins are molecules that transport cholesterol through the bloodstream. They are a protein-lipid compound. Lipoproteins are divided into three groups:

1. LDL (LDL). Molecules (lipoproteins) have a low density. Often this type of cholesterol is called "bad". The danger lies in the fact that it is able to increase the risk of cardiovascular pathologies, "falling out" of the lipoprotein molecule and settling on the walls of blood vessels.
2. HDL (HDL). These are high-density lipoproteins, they are often called "good" cholesterol. These lipoproteins transport cholesterol from cells to the liver, where it is broken down and excreted from the body.
3. Triglycerides are blood lipids. They enter the human body along with fatty foods and can be produced by the breakdown of various energy sources, such as carbohydrates. All calories that were consumed, but not used for their intended purpose, are reborn into triglycerides and stored in lipid cells. If the body needs to get energy, and it did not come with food, triglycerides are released from fat cells. Regulate this process hormones.

Lipoproteins in the blood

The unit of measure for cholesterol in the bloodstream is millimoles (mmol). It indicates how much substance is contained in 1 liter of blood. The level of total cholesterol in the blood should not exceed 6.9 mmol / l. If its value is higher, this is an alarming sign indicating a violation of lipid metabolism.

Cholesterol 10 mmol / l is the level at which the patient needs urgent health care. It is necessary to take measures to lower the content of cholesterol in the blood. The consequences of the problem are very serious - this is the development of cardiovascular diseases, most of which end in death.

Causes of High Cholesterol

An increase in blood cholesterol is called hypercholesterolemia. There are many reasons for this, here are just a few:

• constant consumption of foods high in cholesterol;
• violation of lipid absorption;
• nervous tension;
• hormonal changes.

The initial stage of hypercholesterolemia is completely asymptomatic. The patient does not feel changes in the state of his health. When the pathology progresses, there are symptoms characteristic of atherosclerosis and hypertension.

Excess cholesterol in the blood settles on the walls of blood vessels, forming atherosclerotic plaques. This leads to blockage of large blood vessels- arteries, because of which organs and tissues do not receive the necessary nutrition and oxygen. Such a state circulatory system leads to the development serious pathologies. It depends on which part of the body the plaques have formed, which disease will occur:

• atherosclerosis of the kidneys provokes hypertension;
• if the coronary arteries are affected, there is a risk of myocardial ischemia;
• cholesterol plaques in blood vessels lower extremities lead to the appearance of intermittent claudication;
• atherosclerosis of the mesenteric vessels causes intestinal colic;
• if atherosclerosis has affected the arteries of the brain, a stroke or transient ischemic attacks are possible.

Reasons for high cholesterol

Reliably, scientists have not found out what causes an increase in the level of cholesterol in the body, but the factors are precisely known in which the likelihood of developing hypercholesterolemia increases. These include:

• diabetes;
• drinking alcohol and smoking;
• heredity (if any of the relatives suffer from atherosclerosis);
• hypodynamia, in which muscle activity weakens (occurs in people with a sedentary lifestyle);
• thyroid disease - hypothyroidism;
• malignant neoplasm of the pancreas, chronic pancreatitis;
• obesity;
• taking beta blockers oral contraceptives, androgens, corticosteroids, thiazide diuretics, aspirin, amiodarone;
• consumption of products containing a large number of fats and carbohydrates;
• constant stress conditions;
• diseases of the liver and kidneys;
• lack of somatotropic hormone;
• gout;
• cholelithiasis;
• age over 45 years.

In women, cholesterol rises during pregnancy, as hormonal changes occur in the body.

The presence of all these signs does not mean that the patient will necessarily have high cholesterol. There have been cases when a high lipid content was found in people who led an active lifestyle, watched their diet and did not have bad habits. At the same time, there were patients who had several factors provoking the development of hypercholesterolemia, but they did not have elevated cholesterol.

Hypercholesterol name

Forms of hypercholesterolemia

In medicine, there are several forms of this pathology. They are determined by the mechanism of occurrence:

• Primary. It arises due to hereditary factors in which violations occurred at the genetic level. There are two types of primary form: homozygous (transmitted from both parents, occurs in 1 person in a million) and heterozygous (transmitted from one parent, a common pathology that occurs in 1 out of 500 patients).
• Secondary. Pathology develops against the background chronic diseases and certain states of the body.
• Alimentary form - directly related to nutrition. It occurs due to excessive consumption of foods containing animal fats.

Manifestations of hypercholesterolemia

It is possible to reveal signs of hypercholesterolemia only by laboratory means. Special blood tests are prescribed: lipidogram or biochemical analysis for the detection of cholesterol. But there are some external manifestations for which pathology can be suspected:

• Xanthelasma. These are cholesterol deposits that appear under the skin of the eyelids. They look like yellowish nodules of a flat shape. There are times when they are identical in shade to the skin on other parts of the body.
• xanthomas. These are cholesterol nodules that form over the tendons (for example, over the hands).
• Lipoid changes in the corneal arch. A gray-white or pure white cholesterol deposit appears around the cornea. If such a manifestation occurs in a person under 50 years of age, this may indicate the hereditary nature of the pathology.

All symptoms are manifested against the background of atherosclerotic vascular lesions.

Norm of cholesterol

The norm of cholesterol in women and men

Many people are concerned about the questions: how dangerous it is to have high cholesterol in the blood, and what to do in such a situation.

To understand the global nature of the problem, you need to know exactly what value of cholesterol in the blood is within the normal range, and what poses a potential threat to human health.

The table shows the levels of total cholesterol:

• Values ​​marked in green, are considered the norm, which ranges from 3 to 6.9 mmol / l.
• Yellow symbols indicate that cholesterol levels are becoming alarmingly high or, conversely, low.
• Critical indicators that are dangerous to human health and life are indicated in pink. Moreover, the threat is posed by both high and low level.

How to detect high cholesterol

How to diagnose high cholesterol?

The doctor can identify the problem by conducting a series of diagnostic measures:

1. The study of patient complaints (pain behind the sternum or in the lower extremities, memory impairment, etc.).
2. Collection of anamnesis of life. The doctor interrogates the patient to establish what he was ill with and what serious illnesses his close relatives have. If a patient has a relative who has had a stroke, heart attack or atherosclerosis, the risk for him also increases.
3. Examination of the patient. On physical examination, the doctor may detect xanthomas, xanthelasmas, and a lipid arch on the cornea. Due to cholesterol deposits in the vessels, blood pressure may be elevated. Percussion and auscultation of the heart muscle did not reveal any changes.
4. General analysis of urine and blood. These studies help determine the presence of inflammation and a number of associated diseases.
5. Biochemistry of blood gives a detailed analysis. With the help of such a study, it is possible to establish the amount of creatinine, glucose, uric acid, total protein blood and other parameters. This makes it possible to determine the existing lesions of internal organs.
6. Immunological analysis. With the help of the study, the presence of antibodies to certain microorganisms (chlamydia, cytomegalovirus, etc.) is determined. These protozoa often cause atherosclerosis. Another analysis gives an assessment of the level of C-reactive protein. This type of protein always increases with inflammatory processes in the body.
7. Lipidogram. This is one of the main types of diagnosis of high cholesterol. In the blood test, proatherogenic fats are determined, which lead to atherosclerotic vascular disease. These include LDL, cholesterol, triglycerides and very low density lipoproteins.
8. Genetic analysis. This study is carried out to identify the genes that caused the hereditary form of hypercholesterolemia. To determine the hereditary factor, the analysis is taken from the next of kin of the patient.
9. Test strips. This study can be carried out independently, at home. This method can determine the level of total cholesterol in the blood. Before the procedure, it is recommended to carefully study the instructions.

Methods for diagnosing hypercholesterolemia

If cholesterol is 9, what to do in this case? This question worries many people who have similar problems. First of all, it is recommended to change your habitual lifestyle, exclude fatty foods and bad habits, and be physically active. These simple methods will help to significantly reduce cholesterol in the blood. It is recommended to regularly check the level of lipids and follow the recommendations of the attending physician.

Easy Touch test strips

Cholesterol levels can be measured using Easy Touch test strips. They are a biochemical analyzer. The composition of one pack includes 10 test strips for determining the total cholesterol in the blood. You can do the test yourself, at home, but first read the instructions.

The strips are intended for use in the following analyzers:

• Easy Touch GC;
• EasyTouch GCHb;
• Easy Touch GCU.

The advantage of this analysis is high accuracy and low cost per package. The study is carried out at home exclusively on an empty stomach. The last meal before the test should be at least 12 hours before. During this period, only water is allowed to drink. Other drinks: juice, coffee or tea (even without sugar) should not be consumed before the procedure, they can distort the results of the study.

Treatment of hypercholesterolemia

Consider what drugs are prescribed for hypercholesterolemia:

If cholesterol is 10, what should I do? Treat hypercholesterolemia

Medicines are used for treatment:

1. Statins. These drugs reduce the production of cholesterol by the liver and even its amount inside the cells.
2. Drugs belonging to the group of bile acid sequestrants. Their task is to bind bile acids, which contain cholesterol, and remove it from the body.
3. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids lower triglycerides
4. Inhibitor drugs for the absorption of cholesterol inside the intestine.
5. Fibrates - increase HDL levels and lower triglycerides. They are often prescribed in conjunction with statins.

With the help of non-drug methods, you can also lower cholesterol:

• Get rid of excess weight and monitor body weight in the future.
• Avoid foods high in fat, eat only healthy foods.
• Increase physical activity. Sports will be good.
• Eliminate cigarettes and alcohol from your life.

None of the doctors can 100% guarantee the fact that if a person leads healthy lifestyle life, then he will not have problems with atherosclerosis. But most patients with this disease still associate the development of pathology with elevated cholesterol levels.

For most people, the concept of cholesterol is associated with something bad, harmful to the body. But recent scientific studies have shown that the cholesterol itself, contained in food products, is not at all dangerous, and even vital for a person. With its deficiency in food, there is a failure in the activity of almost all body systems. Without it, the formation of sex hormones, vitamin D, bile acids, cell membranes and nerve endings is impossible.

Cholesterol plaque

The danger is only "internal" cholesterol, which is deposited on the walls of arteries in the form of atherosclerotic plaques. Cholesterol 6 mmol / l or more in the blood - the first precursor possible development atherosclerosis and related pathologies - stroke, heart attack, gangrene of the lower extremities.

What does the concept of "total cholesterol" include?

With food, less than a quarter of all cholesterol enters the body, the rest is synthesized directly in the body. In the blood, its free form constantly circulates, as well as the types of cholesterol associated with fatty acids and lipoproteins. The main indicators determined in blood for medical purposes are:

1. Total cholesterol (OH).
2. Low density lipoproteins (LDL).
3. High density lipoproteins (HDL).

Total cholesterol = free cholesterol + esterified cholesterol + LDL + HDL. The value of cholesterol in the blood depends primarily on the age and sex of the patient.

	Age	Level is normal, mmol/l
		OH	LDL	HDL
M	Up to 30 years old	2,9-6,3	1,8-4,4	0.9-1,7
	30 - 50 years old	3,5-7,8	2,0-5,4	0.7-1,8
AND	Up to 30 years old	2,9-5,7	1,8-4,3	0.8-2.1
	30 -50 years old	3,4-7.3	1,9-5,4

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is considered to be “bad” because, with an increase in its level in the blood, the likelihood of pathological changes vessels. This is due to the fact that it is LDL that is an integral part of atherosclerotic plaques. The main function of LDL is the transport of lipids from the liver to peripheral tissues through the bloodstream.

But the increased level of high-density lipoproteins, on the contrary, is favorable for the body. These particles are able to bind excess cholesterol in organs and tissues, and transfer them to the liver for disposal.

Taking blood for lipid profile

Therefore, when obtaining a laboratory conclusion on the content of OH in the blood more than 6 mmol / l, it is necessary to simultaneously evaluate the level of lipoproteins. For a young man, a cholesterol concentration of more than 6.4 mmol / l is considered elevated, for women - more than 5.8 mmol / l. An increase in cholesterol levels with a predominance of the LDL fraction is extremely dangerous for the body. If OH is increased due to HDL, then the risk of developing atherosclerosis is minimal, the body successfully copes with excess fats.

Statistical data

Diseases of the heart and blood vessels are considered the main cause of death in the working-age population in our country. They kill 36% of men and 46% of women aged 25-64. In women, coronary heart disease caused by atherosclerosis most often develops after 50 years. This is due to the cessation of the functioning of the ovaries, since the estrogens produced by them perfectly protect the walls of blood vessels from negative effects.

The main predisposing factor for the development of atherosclerosis is now considered to be an elevated level of LDL.

As atherosclerotic plaques grow in size due to circulating in blood LDL and triglycerides marked narrowing of the lumen of the vessels. In the case of a complete blockage of the artery, the consequences are extremely sad - up to the disability or even death of the patient.

Atherosclerosis can lead to disability and premature death

According to statistics, the most common pathological level of total cholesterol is 6.6 mmol / l. Further, the remaining indicators in the range of 6.0 - 6.9 mmol / l are the most common. This level is not yet critical for health, however, it should force a person to reconsider their lifestyle and diet. Timely treatment will help to avoid the progression of the disease and the development of complications, so it is important to systematically monitor lipid metabolism.

Causes of High Cholesterol

For successful treatment hypercholesterolemia, it is necessary to initially find out the cause of the pathology. There may be several of them:

1. Heredity. predisposition to high level cholesterol can be passed from parents to children through genetic information. It happens that the defective gene is inherited from both parents, the disease in such a situation is very difficult, most patients die at a young age.
2. Wrong nutrition. Constant overeating, the predominance of fatty and fried foods in the diet, food shortages plant origin can lead to obesity. At the same time, the process of lipid metabolism is also disrupted, and lipidogram indicators increase.
3. Somatic diseases (diabetes mellitus, liver cirrhosis, hypothyroidism).
4. Reception of some medicines(contraceptives, corticosteroids).
5. Sedentary lifestyle.
6. Alcohol abuse and smoking.

The last two reasons negatively affect not only the level of lipids in the blood, but also the state of the body as a whole.

At the same time, in addition to high cholesterol, there is a decrease in immunity, problems with digestive system, violation emotional state, insomnia. With a long-term addiction to bad habits, a person can get a whole "bouquet" of chronic diseases.

Treatment of hypercholesteremia from 6.0 to 6.9 mmol / l

Value range 6.0-6.9 mmol/l - initial stage hypercholesterolemia, due to a slight deviation of indicators from the norm. In most cases, this cholesterol level for a long time not accompanied clinical symptoms, ischemic changes may develop years later. Since there is relatively little cholesterol in the blood, fatty deposits on the inner lining of the arteries will accumulate gradually. Therefore, treatment started on early stage hypercholesterolemia, more effectively than with a significant deviation from the norm.

Hypercholesterolemia can be either temporary or permanent. A short-term increase in cholesterol levels may be due to overeating, such as after the holidays. With a normally functioning lipid metabolism, the indicators quickly return to normal.

More dangerous is the condition in which the measured in several samples taken in different days, the cholesterol concentration is consistently above 6.1 mmol/L. In such a situation, you need:

• diet;
• physical exercise;
• rejection of bad habits.

The above measures are prescribed both for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes (with a borderline level of lipid metabolism or hereditary predisposition). A healthy lifestyle, including physical activity and avoiding alcohol and smoking, will help get rid of extra pounds and normalize lipid metabolism. Swimming, skiing, cycling are especially useful for the body.

bike ride

Nutrition should be balanced in terms of the composition of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, harmful foods containing trans fats (fries, chips, etc.) should be completely excluded.

The daily diet should be enriched with:

• greenery;
• fresh vegetables;
• cereals;
• nuts;
• seafood;
• citrus, black and red currants.

These products are rich in protein, vitamin C, vegetable fiber, trace elements. All this together helps to slow down the absorption of cholesterol by the intestines, accelerate the synthesis of HDL. It should be remembered that it is impossible to completely limit the use of cholesterol-containing foods such as sour cream, cheese, meat, eggs. These products are useful for the body, with a pathology of fat metabolism, you just need to reduce their amount in the diet and prefer less fatty varieties.

Drug treatment in case of small deviations in cholesterol levels above 6 mmol / l is prescribed only if there is no effect from diet food within six months. Previously, it can only be prescribed by a cardiologist if the patient has signs of ischemia of the heart muscle.

The main group of drugs for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia are statins. They allow to reduce the production of lipids by the liver. If necessary, therapy is also supplemented with one or more drugs that inhibit the absorption of fats in the intestine.

Black somrodina contains a large amount of polyphenols

The treatment of hypercholesterolemia with drugs is widespread among the people. alternative medicine. Helps lower blood cholesterol decoction of wild rose, cranberry juice, juice of red and black currants. These berries are rich in vitamin C and contain polyphenols - natural antioxidants that help protect blood vessels from "bad" cholesterol. Foods that are good for the health of the circulatory system, such as White cabbage, garlic, parsley, dill, spinach, celery.

In preventive and medicinal purposes dry powders of linden flowers or dandelion root, linseed and olive oil are used. It should be remembered that the means traditional medicine unable to completely replace drug therapy assigned by a specialist. That's why medicinal plants can only be used as an additional tool.

There is a widespread misconception that cholesterol is harmful to the body, and its level in the blood is one of the most important indicators of a person's health. Many in an attempt to maintain their health adhere to strict diets, excluding all foods containing cholesterol. However, few people know that it is part of cell membranes, gives them strength and ensures the exchange of substances between the cell and the intercellular substance and regulates the activity of enzymes. Thus, without cholesterol it is impossible normal work our body.

Despite the importance of cholesterol, excessive consumption of fatty foods of animal origin can lead to an increase in its content in the body, which negatively affects health and can cause serious illness.

Controlling cholesterol levels will help maintain your health for many years, increase the body's natural resistance, increase life expectancy and improve its quality. In this article, we will dispel the most common myths about the role of cholesterol in our body and its metabolism. We will also look at the most effective ways control cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol (from the Greek. chole - bile and stereo - solid, hard) - was first identified in gallstones hence it got its name. It is a natural water-insoluble lipophilic alcohol. About 80% of cholesterol is synthesized in the body (liver, intestines, kidneys, adrenal glands, gonads), the remaining 20% ​​must come from the food we consume.

Circulating in the bloodstream, cholesterol, if necessary, is used as a building material, as well as for the synthesis of more complex compounds. Since it is insoluble in water (and, accordingly, in the blood), its transportation is possible only in the form of complex water-soluble compounds, which are divided into 2 types:

Low density lipoproteins (LDL)

High density lipoproteins (HDL)

Both of these substances must be in a strictly defined ratio, their total volume must also not exceed the norm. This can lead to serious diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Functions of cholesterol in the body:

- ensuring the strength of cell walls, regulation of their permeability for various molecules;

- synthesis of vitamin D;

- synthesis of steroid (cortisone, hydrocortisone), male (androgens) and female (estrogens, progesterone) sex hormones by the adrenal glands;

- in the form of bile acids, it participates in the formation of bile and the absorption of fats during digestion;

- participates in the formation of new synapses in the brain, thereby improving mental abilities and memory.

In fact, it is not cholesterol as such that causes harm, but its fluctuations beyond the norm. Health problems can cause both excess and lack of it in the body.

The negative impact of cholesterol

According to statistics, people who died from cardiovascular diseases had low levels of high density lipoproteins, but high levels of low density lipoproteins.

Lipoproteins with their wrong ratio or prolonged high content in the blood can settle on the walls of blood vessels and cause atherosclerosis.

It arises dangerous disease when plaques form on the vascular endothelium, which over time grow more and more and accumulate calcium. As a result, the lumen of the vessels narrows, they lose their elasticity (stenosis), which leads to a decrease in the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart and tissues and the development of angina pectoris (cessation of the supply arterial blood to certain areas of the heart due to blockage coronary artery accompanied by pain and discomfort in the chest). Often it is due to a violation of the blood supply that occurs heart attack or myocardial infarction. The formation of cholesterol plaques leads to damage to the inner wall vessels, a thrombus may form, which can subsequently clog the artery or come off and cause an embolism. Also, a vessel that has lost its elasticity can burst with an increase in pressure in the bloodstream.

The role of lipoproteins

HDL is considered a "good" lipoprotein due to its ability to dissolve cholesterol plaques and remove it from the walls of arteries, the higher its percentage in relation to LDL ("bad" lipoprotein), the better. LDL transports cholesterol from the organs that synthesize it into the arteries, and with an increased content of this compound, these large insoluble molecules combine to form fatty plaques, attach to the vessels and clog them. Being subjected to oxidative processes, cholesterol loses its stability and can easily penetrate into the thickness of the walls of the arteries.

Specific antibodies begin to be produced in large quantities against the formed oxidized LDL, which leads to severe damage to the walls of the arteries. In addition, cholesterol lowers nitric oxide levels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Nitric oxide plays an important role in the body:

- dilates blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, prevents the formation of blood clots in the bloodstream;

- plays an important role in the fight against bacteria and viruses that enter the body, destroys cancer cells;

- increases the endurance of muscle tissue;

- participates in the exchange of information between different cells, is a neurotransmitter in synapses.

HDL not only removes cholesterol from the blood back to the liver, but also prevents the oxidation of LDL.

Signs of high cholesterol levels in the body

An increase in cholesterol levels is associated with a violation of lipid (fat) metabolism. This can be a symptom not only of atherosclerosis, but also of other serious illnesses:

- liver;

kidneys (chronic kidney failure, glomerulonephritis);

- pancreas (chronic pancreatitis);

- diabetes ( serious disease associated with impaired synthesis by beta cells of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas);

- hypothyroidism (reduced synthesis of hormones thyroid gland);

- obesity.

Symptoms of atherosclerosis are caused by narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels as a result of prolonged and persistent elevated cholesterol levels, and deterioration of blood circulation by different areas bloodstream.

Main symptoms:

angina pectoris (sudden discomfort or pain in the chest, arising from physical exertion or emotional stress);

- shortness of breath;

- arrhythmia heart rate);

- cyanosis and swelling of the peripheral parts of the body (fingers, toes);

- periodic cramps in the legs (intermittent claudication);

- memory impairment, inattention;

- decrease in intellectual abilities;

- yellow-pink lipid deposits in the skin (xanthomas), most often observed on the skin of the eyelids and in the ankle joints.

The impact of HDL and LDL levels on our health

Still, the opinion that the total level of HDL and LDL lipoproteins affects the state of health and their increase entails terrible consequences for the functioning of the whole organism. However, this statement is not entirely true. Yes, the above diseases will be accompanied high content lipoproteins in general, but what is much more important is the exact ratio of “good” HDL and “bad” LDL in the blood. It is the violation of this proportion that leads to health problems. When determining the content of lipoproteins in the blood, 4 indicators are taken into account: the total amount of cholesterol, the level of HDL, LDL and triglycerides.

Norms

Total cholesterol in the blood - 3.0 - 5.0 mmol/l;

With the threat of atherosclerosis, total cholesterol rises to 7.8 mmol / l;

LDL at men- 2.25 - 4.82 mmol / l;

LDL in women- 1.92 - 4.51 mmol / l;

HDL at men- 0.72 - 1.73 mmol / l;

HDL at women- 0.86 - 2.28 mmol / l;

Triglyceridesin men- 0.52 - 3.7 mmol / l;

Triglyceridesamong women- 0.41 - 2.96 mmol / l.

The most indicative is the ratio of HDL and LDL against the background of general level cholesterol. AT healthy body HDL is much higher than LDL.

The most effective treatments for high cholesterol

There are many drugs that lower cholesterol in cases where this indicator poses a serious threat to health, or already at the onset of atherosclerosis. It is necessary to pay tribute, an important part of which is proper nutrition. In such cases, diet and moderate exercise will help not only bring all blood counts back to normal, but also completely heal and rejuvenate your body.

For a faster therapeutic effect, use pharmacological preparations:

— Statins- the most popular drugs, the principle of their action is to inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver by blocking the corresponding enzymes. Usually they are taken once a day at bedtime (at this time, the active production of cholesterol in the body begins). The therapeutic effect occurs after 1-2 weeks of systematic use, with prolonged use they are not addictive. Side effects may include nausea, abdominal and muscle pain, and in rare cases, there may be individual sensitivity. Drugs of the statin group can reduce cholesterol levels by 60%, but with their long-term use, it is necessary to regularly take tests for AST and ALT every six months. The most common statins are cerivastatin, fluvastatin, and lovastatin.

— Fibrates stimulate the production of HDL, are recommended when the amount of triglycerides is 4.5 mmol / l. Not recommended for use with statins. Side effects manifested in the form of gastrointestinal disorders, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain. Representatives of this group of drugs: clofibrate, fenofibrate, gemfibrozil.

— bile acid sequestrants. This group of drugs is not absorbed into the blood, but acts locally - it binds to bile acids, which are synthesized from cholesterol, and remove them from the body. naturally. The liver begins to increase the production of bile acids, using more cholesterol from the blood, a visible positive effect occurs a month after the start of medication, to enhance the effect, it is possible simultaneous reception statins. Prolonged use of drugs can lead to impaired absorption of fats and vitamins, increased bleeding is possible. Side effects: flatulence, constipation. These drugs include: colestipol, cholestyramine.

— Cholesterol absorption inhibitors interfere with the absorption of lipids from the intestine. Drugs in this group can be prescribed to people who have contraindications to taking statins, since they are not absorbed into the blood. In Russia, only 1 drug of the group of cholesterol absorption inhibitors, ezetrol, is registered.

The above measures are used in advanced cases, when it is necessary to quickly reduce cholesterol levels, and lifestyle changes cannot quickly give the desired effect. But even when taking pharmacological agents do not forget about prevention, and harmless natural supplements that, with long-term regular intake, will help you prevent diseases of the cardiovascular system in the future.

Folk remedies to help lower blood cholesterol levels

– Niacin ( a nicotinic acid, vitamin PP, vitamin B 3). The mechanism of action is not fully understood, but experiments show that after a few days of taking high doses of the vitamin, the level of LDL and triglycerides in the blood decreases markedly, but the amount of HDL increases up to 30%. Unfortunately, it does not reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular complications and seizures. For maximum effectiveness, niacin can be combined with other treatments.

— . Contained in fish oil and seafood, as well as vegetable oils cold pressing (unrefined). They render positive influence on the nervous system, prevent rickets during the period of active growth, help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, improve blood circulation, strengthen blood vessels and give them elasticity, prevent their thrombosis, participate in the synthesis of hormone-like substances - prostaglandins. Regular intake of sources of essential fatty acids miraculously affect the work of the whole organism, in particular, it will help prevent the development of atherosclerosis.

— Vitamin E. An extremely strong antioxidant that prevents the breakdown of LDL and the formation of fatty plaques. For the offensive positive effect it is necessary to constantly use the vitamin in appropriate doses.

— Green tea contains polyphenols - substances that affect lipid metabolism, they reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol and increase the content of "useful". In addition, tea contains antioxidants.

- Garlic. Fresh garlic is recommended to use to lower cholesterol levels, prevent the formation of clots in the vessels (thinns the blood). The active components that make up garlic are sulfur-containing compounds, in particular, alliin.

— Soy protein. By action, they are similar to estrogens - they reduce the likelihood of atherosclerosis. Genistein prevents LDL oxidation due to its antioxidant properties. In addition, soy stimulates the production of bile, thereby helping to remove cholesterol from the body.

— Vitamins B 6 (pyridoxine), B 9 ( folic acid), B 12 (cyanocobalamin). A sufficient amount of these vitamins in the diet contributes to the proper functioning of the heart muscle, significantly reduces the risk of developing atherosclerosis and coronary disease hearts.

What factors contribute to high cholesterol levels and the development of atherosclerosis?

Most often, atherosclerosis affects people who have neglected their health for a long time. The sooner you change your lifestyle, the less likely you are to develop serious diseases. Here are 4 main factors that contribute to high blood cholesterol levels:

— Passive lifestyle. With low mobility, lack of physical activity, the level of "bad" cholesterol rises, creating a threat of the development of cardiovascular diseases.

— Obesity. Violation of lipid metabolism is closely related to high cholesterol. Overweight people are prone to various diseases of the cardiovascular system.

— Smoking. It leads to narrowing of the arteries, an increase in blood viscosity, thrombosis, entails the risk of heart disease.

— Consumption of fatty animal products in large quantities leads to an increase in LDL.

— Heredity. The predisposition to high cholesterol levels is genetically transmitted. Therefore, people whose relatives suffer from this pathology should carefully monitor their health.

Healthy lifestyle as a way to fight cholesterol

As far as you keep proper nutrition and an active lifestyle, the risk of developing various diseases is reduced. This is especially true for people at risk. By changing your lifestyle, you improve the work of the whole organism, even despite the tendency to any pathologies, internal defense mechanisms can easily cope with the threat.

Active sports improve metabolism, train the heart muscle simultaneously with skeletal muscles, contribute to a better blood supply to all organs and systems (with physical activity, the blood from the depot goes into the general channel, this contributes to a better saturation of the organs with oxygen and nutrients).

Sports exercises also lead to the strengthening of the walls of blood vessels, prevent the development varicose veins veins.

Don't forget the importance of proper nutrition. Do not abuse strict diets. The body must receive all the necessary nutrients in the optimal ratio, vitamins and minerals, fiber. The diet should contain enough vegetables, fruits, cereals, lean meat, sea and ocean fish, vegetable unrefined oils, milk and dairy products. If there is a lack of any vitamins in the diet, it is worth periodically taking preparations with their content to prevent beriberi.

Quitting smoking will reduce the risk of developing not only atherosclerosis, but also a number of other diseases, such as bronchitis, stomach ulcers, and cancer.

Sports - the best remedy from stress and depression, it tempers the nervous system. Regular physical activity, whether it's a run in the park or 3 hours of exercise in gym, helps to remove the negativity and irritation accumulated over the whole day, many athletes experience euphoria during training. It has been experimentally proven that active people are much less prone to stress than those who lead a sedentary lifestyle.

Conclusion

As you can see, cholesterol is an extremely important compound that performs a number of vital functions. important functions. It is necessary for our life, but in the body its amount should not go beyond the norm. An imbalance in the ratio of high and low density lipoproteins entails serious consequences.

The best treatment is timely prevention. by the most effective method prevent the increase in blood cholesterol is a healthy lifestyle.

When you give up bad habits and start adhering to the above rules, you will completely forget about health problems.

Cholesterol. Myths and deceit.

With its full abundance, cell membranes have good permeability, which allows them to adequately receive oxygen and nutrients, when cholesterol is too high, cells do not receive the necessary components for normal development. Lipids also help the body produce male hormones, such as estrogen and androgen, without them man's health young man will be downgraded.

In addition, it is cholesterol that is responsible for the production of those hormones that should be produced by the adrenal glands in the body, when the lipid level exceeds the norm, hormones are secreted in a minimal amount. Thus, it turns out that an increase in this substance can cause a lack of cortisol, corticosterone and aldosterone, and all these hormones are very important for the full functioning of a man's body.

Cholesterol is also responsible for the production of bile, and a lack or excess of bile can adversely affect human health, in addition, it is worth noting that lipids make it possible to process sunlight into vitamin D, which is necessary for the body.

Cholesterol plays an equally important role in the metabolism and absorption of vitamins such as A, D, K and E, while lipids make it possible to isolate fibers nervous system.

What is cholesterol?

high cholesterol it is not always necessary to lower, first you need to find out exactly what this substance is. If you recall the biology course from school, then a good and bad cholesterol, it is the increase of the second that will be dangerous for human health. Today, scientists distinguish three types of lipids, for this reason we will talk in more detail about each of them in order to understand why they are necessary, and whether they can be dangerous if their blood levels rise.

The first group includes low-density lipids, which is exactly what bad cholesterol is, which can be harmful to health if it is above normal in the blood. With an increase in the level of this substance, a man increases the chance of getting any kind of heart or vascular disease, the most dangerous of which is atherosclerosis.

The second group should include high-density lipids, also called good cholesterol, it is these substances that help protect cardiovascular system from various diseases. This substance has a different effect, it removes harmful cholesterol from cells, moving it to the liver, where lipids are broken down and excreted from the body.

Triglycerides - these substances are also referred to as cholesterol, since they are present in the blood of every person, and when interacting with cholesterol, they form special fats in the blood. Such substances enter the body usually with food species fats or enter the bloodstream with light carbohydrates. These substances accumulate in body fat deposits if a person does not use this component for energy expenditure. When the body needs to use energy reserves, triglycerides are released from the cells and converted into energy, this process is controlled by certain types of hormones in the male body.

Normal level of lipids in the blood of a man

At each age, the rate of cholesterol in men will be different, for this reason it is worth noting that the level of this substance can range from 3.6 to 7.8 mmol per liter of blood. In this case, the latter indicator is considered elevated, which indicates the risk of developing atherosclerosis in men.

Normally, a young person's cholesterol should be about 4.6 mmol per liter, but if the indicators increase from 5 to 6.4 mmol per liter of blood, this is considered average rate substances in the blood. When the analysis shows that the cholesterol in the blood has risen to the level of 7.8 mmol, then it is necessary to prescribe complex treatment to reduce bad cholesterol, since such a figure is considered a very high indicator of cholesterol at any age.

Diseases that cause high cholesterol

There are a number of diseases that can lead to sharp increase lipid levels in human blood, for example, cholesterol is significantly increased in those people who suffer from atherosclerosis, since in this disease the vessels are clogged with plaques. Also, this substance can be increased if the patient has been found to have an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease, this occurs when the main artery is damaged, which should deliver oxygen and blood to the heart.

It is not uncommon for lipid levels to rise when a person is diagnosed with a myocardial infarction, the heart muscle dies due to blockage of the artery, and blood with oxygen cannot flow to the heart for its normal functioning. Blood to the heart organ can be worse if a man has angina pectoris, which also causes an increase in the level of bad cholesterol in the blood.

Some other types of heart and vascular diseases very often lead to an excess of lipid levels, especially after a mini-stroke or stroke, as a blood clot can block an artery or vein to the brain, which causes a lack of oxygen and organ cell death.

Men need to remember that an increased level of this substance in the blood can provoke the development of severe heart and vascular diseases, for this reason, doctors recommend taking a blood test to check the lipid level at least once a year. At the same time, young men after twenty need to do a biochemical analysis once a year, after thirty this analysis repeat at least twice a year to monitor the level of beneficial and harmful substances in the blood.

The main symptoms of increased lipid levels in men

Unfortunately, doctors cannot say what symptoms high cholesterol in the blood manifests itself, since this disease simply no visible symptoms, but over time, symptoms may appear caused by the development of certain diseases due to increased cholesterol. For example, if an increase in blood lipids causes angina pectoris, then the patient has a significant narrowing of the coronary artery that delivers blood and oxygen to the heart muscle.

With light exercises, pain in the legs occurs, it is not uncommon for a stroke to occur, as blood vessels rupture due to blood clots. Also, plaque rupture occurs, which leads to thrombosis or even heart failure. Yellowing of the skin around the eye may occur, which also indicates cholesterol deposits in the blood of a man.

What are the reasons for high cholesterol?

Not only various diseases cause an increase in lipid levels in the blood of a man, since even lifestyle greatly affects human health. For example, an increase in cholesterol is often observed in those men who eat a lot. junk food, which contains a lot of fat, cholesterol and trans fats. Also, the presence of this substance in the blood leads to an increase in this substance. overweight, lack of movement and a passive lifestyle, in addition, the use of alcoholic beverages and smoking.

How to treat high cholesterol in the blood

There are a few simple methods, how to reduce elevated lipid levels, but it should be borne in mind that these methods work in most cases with slightly elevated cholesterol. For example, when a man has an increase in lipids, he should change his lifestyle completely, for this it is very important to exercise more, add healthy foods such as oats, fresh vegetables, healthy fats, fruits to his daily menu, and also eliminate the use of junk and fatty foods.

It has also been proven that cholesterol is lowered if a person gives restful sleep at least eight hours per day. It is necessary to pay more attention to your weight, especially if the man is obese, in which case it is important to normalize the weight in order to eliminate elevated lipid levels.

A healthy lifestyle positively affects cholesterol, so it is worth giving up smoking and alcoholic beverages in order to restore your health, this is especially true for men after thirty years. If the case is severe enough and cholesterol is highly elevated, then treatment with medication may be necessary.

What is the best diet to follow?

Many people know that high cholesterol in the blood can become the main factor in the development of atherosclerosis in a man, it is for this reason that the doctor first of all prescribes a strict diet, which will help to significantly reduce the level of a harmful substance in a person’s blood.

It is very important to first completely remove from the menu those foods that can increase cholesterol levels, as doctors say, healthy person per day, it is necessary to consume up to two hundred and fifty milligrams of this substance with food, while on a diet given quantity drops to one hundred milligrams of cholesterol per day.

What foods should be excluded?

There is a whole list of foods that contain a sufficiently large amount of this substance, for this reason, doctors recommend eliminating these ingredients from your diet or limiting their use in the daily menu. To begin with, fatty meat is completely excluded, that is, beef and pork remain banned, especially the brisket and ribs, these are the places where the meat contains a lot of fatty fat. Pork fillet will also be banned, as well as any types of offal, it is better to refuse to eat smoked and sausage products, lard and canned food will not benefit, you will have to give up sausages and boiled sausages on the menu.

It is recommended to abandon white fatty meat, for this reason, goose and duck meat are excluded from the diet, they also reduce the consumption of chicken eggs, it is worth eliminating margarine pastries from the menu, as well as removing butter with a lot of fat, all types of cheeses, sour cream and yogurt. Convenience foods, industrial baked goods, as well as sweet desserts and fast food they will only increase the amount of cholesterol in the blood and worsen the condition of a person, for this reason they should also be abandoned.

What Foods Help Lower Cholesterol?

Since there is a group harmful products, which increase this substance in the blood, there are also useful types of products, they help to reduce bad cholesterol. Below we will take a closer look at each of the products, it is worth remembering that these ingredients must be included in your daily diet.

Deserves special attention oily fish, you can eat any fatty varieties, since they are especially rich in polyunsaturated acids, which help reduce the amount of harmful substances in human blood, in addition, it is fish that is rich in substances such as phosphorus, selenium, fluorine and potassium, as well as others necessary for the body substances. Nuts have a no less positive effect on the composition of the blood, they all, without exception, help to lower the level of lipids in the blood, thereby improving the condition of the patient.

Garlic can be attributed to the group of those ingredients that have a positive effect on the work of the human body, and also in the composition of the spicy vegetable there is alliin, it is he who helps to cleanse the vessels from cholesterol plaques which prevents the development of various heart diseases. It is especially important to eat more real tomatoes, they contain those substances that help break down cholesterol in the blood, thereby preventing blockage of blood vessels. Carrots and apples are useful species foods that are supposed to be eaten in large quantities at the first symptoms of high cholesterol, they are not only useful for the body as a whole, but also help to lower the level of bad cholesterol by twenty percent.

All types of soy products will be incredibly useful for men who have high cholesterol in the blood, as soy helps to change bad cholesterol, making it good, that is, it lowers the percentage of harmful substances in the patient's body. It is also worth paying attention to those foods that are rich in fiber, it can be any vegetables and fruits, as well as legumes and citrus fruits, they will help lower cholesterol levels, and dietary olive oil is also added to the diet.

It is worth using any dairy products on the menu that have a low percentage of fat content, there is no excess cholesterol in it, but there are many useful elements for the body. From meat, it is worth using boiled chicken, rabbit, veal or turkey fillet, these types of meat are considered dietary and cannot cause an increase in blood cholesterol, it is also worth remembering that chicken eggs are not completely banned, but it is not recommended to eat more than two pieces per week.

Also, you should not use fried and too hearty dishes for breakfast, but whole grain cereals will be an ideal solution. Meals are recommended to be carried out at the same time, in the morning it is very important to do light exercises, and in the evening to walk or work out in the gym.

You should not self-medicate, at the first signs of the disease, you must pass a biochemical blood test, as well as visit your doctor. An experienced doctor will be able to determine the level of cholesterol, and then prescribe necessary treatment, in one case it is enough to change the lifestyle and diet, in the other you will have to use medicines to lower this substance in the blood.