It’s one of those things that most of us have heard about, but which few of us have had checked out. Cholesterol is our society’s silent killer, however we only hear about the bad side of having cholesterol. Is there a good side?

When we hear the word Cholesterol, we often associate it with being a bad thing, but at normal levels, it is an essential substance for our bodies. In high concentrations, it is known as a silent killer as it is the main cause of coronary heart disease which leads to a heart attack.

Every cell in the human body has cholesterol. It has a waxy fat-like appearance and aids in digesting food, producing hormones and even generating Vitamin D. There are two types of cholesterol, LDL and HDL. LDL or “Low-density lipoproteins” is the bad cholesterol and HDL or “High-density lipoproteins” is the good cholesterol.

In order to keep our cholesterol levels normal, we need to manage the food we eat. Foods that have to be eaten in moderation include:

Being overweight can lead to high cholesterol while genetics can also play a part in high cholesterol, which is also known as familial hypercholesterolemia. Other conditions that cause abnormal levels of cholesterol include diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, pregnancy or an increase in female hormones, an underactive thyroid gland or even anabolic steroids.

Fortunately, there are foods that help to lower our cholesterol. According to Harvard Health, foods such as oats, whole grains and barley, beans, nuts, vegetable oil and soy-based foods as well as apples, grapes, citrus, salmon, tuna and sardines are all good for lowering our cholesterol.

High cholesterol is known as the silent killer as the condition has no signs or symptoms. It is very important to have your cholesterol levels regularly checked or it will go unnoticed until it presents itself in the form of a seemingly unexpected heart attack or stroke.

If a diagnosis of high cholesterol is made it is best to make some lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease or worse, a heart attack or a stroke. Changing to a heart-healthy diet, getting some exercise and maintaining a healthy weight is, in itself, a great start to maintaining a healthy cholesterol level. For individuals who are at a higher risk of a heart attack, a medication known as a “statin” is prescribed.

There are several brands of statins on the market today and while it does lower cholesterol, but a significant number of people experience side effects from their use. The main side effect from the use of statins is Statin-induced myopathy (muscle tissue disease) which causes the muscles to ache, feel heavy or stiff. Another side effect is fatigue or a low energy level. Lesser known side effects may include flushing, skin rash, increased risk of Type 2 diabetes and liver damage.

Ultimately, lifestyle changes after being diagnosed with high cholesterol should be the first change you make. Ask your doctor for advice on alternative ways to lower your cholesterol, or consult with a dietician.

Once diagnosed with high cholesterol, don’t just ignore it, as it will not right itself and will need constant monitoring, whatever treatment program you decide to follow.

Get in touch with us or pay us a visit at our Nelspruit Promenade based pharmacy.