When it comes to cholesterol, we often view it as a problem. However, some cholesterol is beneficial for your health. It’s important to maintain a balance. Here are some healthy habits to help you achieve that!
Cholesterol is produced by the liver and is essential for releasing hormones. Another important function of cholesterol is to build cell membranes. Fats and proteins combine to form lipoproteins, which carry cholesterol in your body by transporting it through the blood. Two types of lipoproteins carry cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein. Bad cholesterol, known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells. Excess production of this bad cholesterol can stick to the walls of arteries and form plaque. The formation of plaque can affect the blood flow by narrowing the arteries and can form blood clots. It’s important to manage bad cholesterol as it can adversely affect heart health. Here are some healthy ways to reduce bad cholesterol.
7 Healthy Habits to Reduce Bad Cholesterol
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body weight can disturb the balance of fats in the bloodstream, increasing LDL levels. It’s important to manage weight so that our body can easily control fats like triglycerides and cholesterol and reduce the chances of chronic diseases.
- Exercise regularly: Regular exercise helps to activate the enzymes used to transport LDL cholesterol from blood to the liver. Additionally, it can burn more calories and improve the function of blood vessels to enhance blood circulation.
- Consume balanced diet: Balance your lipid profile by consuming a balanced diet. Fruits, whole grains, healthy fats help to maintain cholesterol levels. Balanced diet also helps to manage weight which can help to improve overall health.
- Get regular health check-ups: Cholesterol levels can change over time and it’s important to get checked regularly to track and manage your LDL. Regular check-ups are needed for better prevention.
- Avoid stress: You body releases cortisol when you take stress which can affect heart health by increasing blood pressure. Stress can also trigger inflammation in the body.
- Adequate sleep: Proper sleep is necessary to regulate hormones and control lipid levels. Insufficient sleep can affect the process of metabolism and increase LDL. Get enough sleep and manage your cholesterol levels.
- Say no to alcohol: Consuming alcohol can spike your triglycerides and damage liver. Alcohol can even disturb blood sugar levels and cause dehydration. Its better to avoid alcohol to stay healthy and manage cholesterol.
It’s important to manage your cholesterol because it can lead to severe cardiovascular issues. Make sure to adapt a healthy lifestyle and well-balanced diet. Avoid the consumption of foods not good for your health and get examined regularly. Regular habits greatly impact your overall health, so make sure to develop better ones.