Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in our body. It is very essential for the formation of cell membranes, enzymes, hormones and for a host of other functions of the body. On the other hand, when cholesterol goes beyond the recommended levels, it poses as a health risk, and increases the chances of developing cardiovascular disorders.
Causes Of High Cholesterol Levels
Main causes of elevated levels of cholesterol include:
- Diet
Consuming too much of saturated fats, trans fats, animal products, refined and processed foods, fried and greasy foods, is the chief reason. They increase the LDL or bad cholesterol in the body tremendously.
- Exercise
People who lead sedentary lives, have no exercise routine and are couch potatoes are prone to high levels of cholesterol and the linked heart troubles.
- Body Weight
Obesity and being over weights are huge contributing factors. Obesity increases the amount of LDL and triglycerides. The calories do not get burnt and they get stored as fats.
- Genetic Factors
Genes play a pivotal role in the level of cholesterol in the blood. High levels of cholesterol run in families.
- Stress
There is a strong relation between cholesterol levels and stress.
Stress affects our lifestyle in a negative way. Stress, emotional turmoil and worry make us more susceptible to increased cholesterol in the blood, and raise the chance of acquiring heart diseases.
- Smoking
Smoking is a big trigger. It decreases the level of HDL cholesterol, increases LDL and VLDL and raises the risk of blood clot formation.
- Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol intake raises the blood pressure, increases LDL and augments one’s risk of cardiac ailments.
Home Remedies For Cholesterol Reduction And Control
- Garlic: garlic is known to reduce levels of LDL or harmful cholesterol, and increase HDL or good cholesterol. Consume 3 flakes of raw garlic daily, it will keep the cholesterol level in check and also prevent the B.P. from shooting.
- Onion: onion is known as blood thinner. It prevents blood clot formations and maintains normal levels of cholesterol in the body.
- Oats: oats are recommended by experts to help manage normal serum cholesterol levels. It wards off cardiovascular diseases and diabetes too. Oats can be added to the bread, muffins, biscuits, or had as pancakes or porridge.
- Flax seeds: flax seeds supply the body with omega 3 fatty acids that are known to protect the heart. Roast the seeds and pound them. Consume 3 spoons daily.
- Walnuts: walnuts too provide large doses of omega 3 fatty acids and essential fatty acids. Doctors advocate having 3 walnuts daily.
- Elimination of fats from the diet: watching your diet is very crucial. Eliminate all trans fats from your diet. Cut down on fatty foods, greasy and fried foods, biscuits, wafers, crisps and aerated beverages. Eliminate alcohol altogether. Salt restriction is recommended too.
