What are the Risks of Excess Lipids?

When too much cholesterol is circulating in the blood, it causes too many sticky deposits (called plaques) on the arterial wall. Plaque will eventually block or even block blood flow to the brain, heart and other organs. A recent report shows that more and more people have high cholesterola disease that is more common in people who live in the western diet. Although heredity may be the cause of some people, the main reason why more and more people have the disease is because of their saturated fat-rich diet and sedentary lifestyle. The normal range of total cholesterol in the blood should be 140-200 mg / dL. A level of 200-240 mg / dL indicates that you are at a moderate risk, while a level of more than 240 mg / dL indicates that you are at high risk.

Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia is also known as hypercholesterolemia. Blood lipid is a soft waxy substance in the human body. It is a natural component of fat in the blood and all cells of the human body. Cholesterol is a necessary part of a healthy body for a while. High cholesterol in the blood (called hypercholesterolemia) increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and can cause stroke or heart attack.

Introduction to Hyperlipidemia

Although total cholesterol is important, it may not tell you everything. There are two main types of cholesterol: low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL is often considered "benign" cholesterol, while LDL is considered "malignant". Triglycerides are the third type of fatty substance found in the blood. Although the effects of these substances on heart disease are not yet clear, it seems that the increase in triglyceride content will reduce the "benign" cholesterol content. When a person has hypercholesterolemia, the complex interactions of these three lipids are gone. High cholesterol appears as having high levels of LDL cholesterol, normal or low levels of HDL cholesterol, and normal or high levels of triglycerides.

Signs and symptoms of hyperlipidemia

In the early stages of symptoms, high cholesterol usually does not show any symptoms. Therefore, routine blood tests are important for early detection of the condition. However, in the later stages of symptoms, high cholesterol can manifest as one of the following symptoms: fatty deposits in tendons and skin (known as xanthomas), enlarged liver and spleen (detected by medical providers), pancreas Severe abdominal pain caused by inflammation (caused by triglyceride deposition in the pancreas, which occurs when triglyceride content is 800 mg / dL or higher), chest pain and even a heart attack (when cholesterol is deposited in the blood vessel wall And can block blood flow to the heart).

Causes of Hyperlipidemia

In some cases, abnormally high cholesterol may be a genetic disease. Certain genetic factors of abnormal cholesterol and triglycerides, such as hereditary hyperlipidemia, are very difficult to treat. Some people's high cholesterol or triglycerides can also be linked to other diseases, such as diabetes. In most cases, however, high cholesterol levels are associated with a high-fat diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Obese people usually also get this disease, which is a very common condition in the United States now, and half of adults already have this disease. Total high cholesterol and LDL cholesterol include:

Hereditary hyperlipidemia (type a or b)

A diet rich in saturated fat and cholesterol

Liver Disease

Inactive thyroid

Uncontrolled diabetes

Pituitary glands (glands that control human hormones in the brain) are too active

Nephropathy, called nephritis syndrome, is manifested by high cholesterol, loss of protein in the urine leading to low protein levels in the blood, and swelling caused by excessive fluid closure

Anorexia nervosa

Progestins, cyclosporine, thiazide diuretics and other drugs

Factors for low HDL cholesterol include:

Malnutrition

obesity

Smoking

Certain drugs such as beta blockers and anabolic steroids

Too little exercise

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Factors of high triglyceride content include:

Hereditary hyperlipidemia (type I, IIb, III, IV, or V)

A calorie-rich diet, especially sugary and refined carbohydrates

obesity

Uncontrolled diabetes

Insulin resistance (a hormone that lowers blood sugar levels and reduces insulin)

Drinking

Renal failure

pressure

pregnancy

polycystic ovarian syndrome, PCOS

hepatitis

lupus

Multiple myeloma (a rare disease, more common in men, related to anemia, bleeding, recurrent infections, and weakness)

Lymphoma (tumor of lymphoid tissue)

Certain medications such as estrogen (available as part of an oral contraceptive or hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women)

Corticosteroids are a class of lipid-lowering drugs such as bile acid binding resins (including cholestyramine, colestipol) and isotretinoin (for acne)

High risk factors for hyperlipidemia

There are special factors that increase a person's risk of developing high cholesterol. Although some factors cannot be changed in life, there are many that can be changed. The most important risk factors for high cholesterol are:

obesity

Diets rich in saturated fats and trans-fatty acids (often found in processed foods, such as hydrogenated and fried foods)

Low-fiber diet

Too little exercise

pressure

Smoking

Living in industrial countries

Inactive thyroid

diabetes

polycystic ovarian syndrome, PCOS

Hyperlipidemia Healthy Food

Hyperlipidemia soybean

: Many studies have shown that replacing some animal proteins with soy protein in the diet can lower cholesterol levels in the blood, especially when soy is added to a low-fat diet. One study showed that eating 20 grams of soy protein per day was effective in reducing total cholesterol, but 40-50 grams showed a faster effect (within 3 weeks instead of 6 weeks). This evidence proves that a healthy diet should include soy protein. In fact, starting in October 1999, the Food and Drug Administration FDA has allowed food labels to include 6.25 grams or more of soy protein to show that these foods reduce the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, patients with high AHA and total LDL cholesterol levels should add soy to their daily diet. Avoid washing soybeans with alcohol, as this process causes soybeans to lose isoflavones, a substance that may be effective in lowering blood lipids.

Hyperlipidemia fiber

: Fiber in flax seed shell, guar gum, and oat bran, which can effectively control weight and calorie absorption by promoting satiety; improve cholesterol and triglyceride content and blood sugar content in diabetic patients

Hyperlipidemia walnuts and flax seeds

: One of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid. Replacing the monounsaturated fat (35%) in the Mediterranean diet with walnuts seems to be effective in controlling cholesterol and triglyceride levels in patients with high cholesterol. Almonds, although not as well studied as walnuts, seem to have similar effects in replacing monounsaturated fats in a low-fat diet.

Q10(CoQ10 Hyperlipidemia Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Also called ubiquinone, it is an antioxidant necessary to make energy. Compared with healthy people of the same age, patients with high cholesterol have lower CoQ10 content. In addition, when patients with high cholesterol take statin, the content of CoQ10 seems to drop to a certain ratio more directly than cholesterol, especially when you take statin for a long time. But when you take CoQ10 supplements, you can supplement the shortcomings of the statin drug without affecting the positive effect of the drug on cholesterol.

L- Hyperlipidemia L-carnitine

: L-Carnitine is derived from the amino acids lysine and methionine and is secreted in the liver and kidneys. It is stored in the skeletal muscles and heart and is beneficial for the treatment of some diseases such as chest pain, heart attack, heart failure, diabetes and abnormal cholesterol. In some studies in humans, supplementing 2-3 grams of L-carnitine daily causes a reduction in total cholesterol and triglycerides and increases HDL cholesterol levels.

Hyperlipidemia Herbal Essence

Hawthorn

Catechin in green tea

Garlic

Red clover

Reference recommendations for hyperlipidemia

Because most people don't show much if they have symptoms of hypercholesterolemia (another term for high cholesterol), blood tests are very important. The initial blood test was used to "ad hoc" measure total and HDL cholesterol, a test that can be performed at any time during the day, regardless of what the patient has eaten. Those with abnormal levels (total cholesterol in excess of 200 mg / dL or HDL cholesterol less than 40 mg / dL) need to continue a test called rapid lipid profiling (testers stop eating for 8-12 hours, usually The night before the test) that quick test will show whether the total cholesterol content is within the normal range (between 140-200 mg / dL) and appropriately high (between 200-240 mg / dL) , Or whether it is in the very high range (240 mg / dL or higher). This blood test also showed levels of LDL, HDL and triglycerides. According to guidelines issued by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP), the most appropriate level of LDL cholesterol depends on whether you have heart disease or other risk factors that can cause it (such as diabetes and high blood pressure). The most appropriate level of HDL for all people (healthy or unhealthy) is a measured value above 60 mg / dL; low levels are 40 mg / dL or below. Adults with normal totals and HDL cholesterol levels should have their cholesterol checked every 5 years. People who are being treated for hypercholesterolemia should have their cholesterol checked every 2-6 months.

Prevention of Hyperlipidemia

Changing your diet is key to avoiding high cholesterol. Other lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease include maintaining a normal weight and increasing physical activity.

The best ways to lower cholesterol through your diet include:

Reduce your daily intake of saturated fat and cholesterol

Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, fish and whole wheat

Dietary supplements such as fiber

There are many diets designed to maintain normal cholesterol levels, including the American Heart Association (AHA) diet, the Mediterranean diet, and the Ornish diet. Although the three diets are different in some ways, they all emphasize whole wheat and include fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, especially soy and fish, and avoid saturated fats and trans fatty acids. These diets are briefly listed below.

The AHA Step I diet is considered suitable for most people, including those who have normal cholesterol levels and want to prevent high cholesterol. This diet requires that 55% of the calories absorbed per day come from carbohydrates, 15% from protein and no more than 30% from fat. This diet also requires special types of fats. The proportions include:

8% -10% of fat comes from saturated fatty acids (saturated fats are mostly contained in animal foods such as butter, cheese, milk, cheese and ice cream)

More than 10% of fat comes from polyunsaturated fatty acids (polyunsaturated fats are highly unsaturated fats and are abundant in plant foods, including safflower, sunflower, corn, and soybean oil)

More than 15% comes from monounsaturated fatty acids (monounsaturated fats are trace unsaturated fats, which are found in large amounts in plant foods including peanuts, avocados, canola seeds, and olive oil)

Dietary cholesterol intake is less than 300 mg per day. This diet also specifies calorie levels that help people reach and maintain a healthy weight, and it is ideal for people who currently have too much fat in their diet and have not previously considered diet to lower their cholesterol.

The AHA Step II diet is designed for patients who need more LDL reduction, and includes guidelines for Step I (above) with two modifications:

Less than 7% of calories come from saturated fat (replaces 8% -10%)

Less than 200 mg of cholesterol in the diet per day (instead of less than 300 mg per day).

The Mediterranean diet includes whole wheat, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, garlic, and moderately red wine daily. Although fat is not low in this diet, it is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and can increase HDL cholesterol content and inhibit LDL cholesterol from adhering to arterial walls.

A large, well-designed study found that 50% to 70% of people who had at least one heart attack would be less likely to have another heart attack if they had a Mediterranean diet. This diet puts emphasis on the daily absorption of bread, vegetable roots and green vegetables as well as fruits, fish and poultry. Only olive and canola oils are included in this diet plan, and they contain margarine (with alpha-linolenic acid) instead of butter. Eating beef and lamb is not allowed, this diet is naturally rich in fiber, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. It contains the same amount of protein as the AHA diet, but the source of the protein is mainly fish.

The Mediterranean diet contains less carbohydrates than the AHA and Ornish diets, but it also emphasizes eating fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and soy.

The Ornish diet is an all-vegetarian diet and people have found that it can significantly reduce cholesterol levels and substantially reverse the factors that cause heart disease. No oils or animal foods are allowed in the Ornish diet, except for skim milk products and protein. In this diet, total fat is limited to 10% of calories per day and saturated fat is significantly limited, while carbohydrates usually provide more than 75% of calories. Complex carbohydrates from whole wheat and other high-fiber foods as well as fresh fruits and vegetables are emphasized.

Overweight people who lose weight can increase cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. Even a slight weight loss will be more effective in reducing LDL levels nutritionally. A weight loss of 5-10 pounds can reduce LDL content to the equivalent of just doubling it through diet. Weight loss usually results in a reduction in triglycerides and an increase in HDL cholesterol. The goal of weight loss must be realistic, not rapid or surprising weight loss. A very low-calorie diet (500-800 calories) can be dangerous and should not be recommended. A reasonable calorie limit would be to reduce 250-500 calories in your diet each day, with the goal of gradually reducing half a catty to a catty a week.

Physical exercise: Regular physical exercise can reduce the risk of dying from heart disease and increase the effect of diet on LDL cholesterol levels. In a study of 377 people divided into four groups (aerobic fitness, AHA step II diet, step II diet plus exercise or no intervention), the diet-only group did not show a reduction in LDL, There was a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol in the step diet II plus exercise group. Proper exercise 3 to 5 times a week (equivalent to walking 7 to 14 miles per day) can help promote weight gain in obese people, reduce LDL and triglyceride levels, and produce appropriate levels of HDL cholesterol. Physical exercise can also lower blood pressure. Therefore, everyone who may be at risk of heart disease should consider implementing a regular, aerobic exercise program to suit everyone's physical fitness level, heart health and exercise preferences.

Hyperlipidemia Treatment Plan

The main purpose of treatment is to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart disease and stroke, by lowering blood cholesterol levels. Studies show that every 1% reduction in cholesterol levels reduces the incidence of heart disease by 2%. The people most in need of lowering cholesterol are those who already have heart disease or have multiple risk factors for the disease. Lifestyle changes are the most effective way to prevent and, in less severe cases, to treat increased LDL cholesterol levels. This treatment strategy is based on dietary changes and physical exercise. In addition to very little fat and cholesterol, lean protein (such as soybeans and fish) and many fruits and vegetables, the diet should include: soluble cellulose, such as flax, which has a cholesterol-lowering effect; soy, reduces total cholesterol; antioxidants When ingested in large amounts, there is a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. (Vitamin E seems to have a special effect); omega-3 fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid DHA, eicosapentaenoic acid EPA, may reduce the chance of another heart attack and death from heart disease; folic acid supplement Substances can improve the function of blood vessels in patients with high cholesterol and reduce their risk of heart disease. In addition, beer yeast, fenugreek, and Indian Mukul Myrrh Guggulipid supplements can help lower cholesterol levels.

Hyperlipidemia lifestyle

The following lifestyle changes can prevent high cholesterol and reduce high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides: changes in diet, weight loss, increased physical activity, reduced stress, and quitting (since smoking reduces HDL cholesterol)

Hyperlipidemia massage and physical therapy

Although no studies have investigated the effect of massage on lowering cholesterol levels, massage can reduce cortisol (stress-related hormones) content and relax people. Therefore, massage may have indirect effects on stress-induced risk factors, such as poor diet and obesity, smoking or lack of exercise. Reducing cortisol levels also has a positive effect on lowering cholesterol levels.

/ Hyperlipidemia psychiatric / physical medicine

Decompression: Mental and social stress increase the risk of heart disease. Stress is thought to promote arteriosclerosis, and effective decompression methods can help reduce high cholesterol levels and other risk factors. Some research on abstract contemplation (TM) found that people who practiced had significantly reduced total cholesterol levels, blood pressure, obesity, and smoking after 3-11 months. Although TM seems to be one of the more effective ways to relax, there are other methods you can consider including: progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), biofeedback, yoga, and learning to cope with stress.

Prevention and complications of hyperlipidemia

If high cholesterol is not treated, it may cause some complications, including: heart disease-the leading cause of death in China, and high cholesterol levels double the risk of heart disease. Reducing cholesterol by 1% can reduce the incidence of coronary artery disease by 2%. Low HDL cholesterol levels increase the risk of stroke. 88% of people with low HDL cholesterol and 84% of people with high triglycerides have insulin resistance (that is, their bodies are unable to respond to insulin, leading to increased blood sugar levels). Many people with insulin resistance develop diabetes. You should also be aware that lowering cholesterol levels too quickly can cause depression because it reduces the content of omega-3 fatty acids. Maintaining an appropriate weight, eating a low-fat diet, and exercising can have important effects on cholesterol levels and improve long-term prognosis.