Incorporating these five drinks into your daily routine can help naturally lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Read ahead to know.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that plays an important role in a variety of physiological functions, but elevated levels, especially LDL cholesterol, can contribute to heart disease by forming arterial plaque. Excessive cholesterol poses a significant risk to overall health, as it can cause the development of cardiovascular diseases and other related complications. However, when levels become elevated, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly known as ‘bad’ cholesterol, it can accumulate in arteries, forming plaque and obstructing blood flow. This process increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues.
What are the signs and symptoms of high cholesterol?
High cholesterol is largely symptomless, but when left undiagnosed it may lead to a heart attack and stroke. However, there are certain signs that may suggest you are at risk, including lifestyle factors such as being overweight or obese, inactivity, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, poor sleep and high levels of stress. Other indicators that suggest high cholesterol include a diet high in saturated fats, ultra processed foods, refined carbs and processed meats.
Your family history may also suggest a genetic predisposition to heart conditions, these include a condition known as familial hypercholesterolemia. Over time, as this condition advances, you may present physical symptoms that suggest high cholesterol.
Five signs you may have high cholesterol
1. Cholesterol deposits in the skin or on the eyelids
2. Yellowish lumps or patches on the skin
3. Deposits in a half-moon shape on the cornea of the eye (corneal arcus)
4. Swollen tendons (tendon xanthomata) or bumps around joints, like the knuckles
5. Erectile dysfunction
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