Understanding High and Low Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol plays a crucial role in your health, but both high levels and low levels can be concerning for different reasons. While high cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease, abnormally low levels may be linked to other health issues. Understanding your cholesterol levels and what they mean is essential for maintaining overall well-being. A primary care physician can help assess your risk factors and guide you toward optimal heart health through personalized care and lifestyle recommendations.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that the body needs to function properly. Produced by the liver and also found in certain foods, cholesterol plays a vital role in building cells, producing hormones, and aiding digestion. However, imbalanced cholesterol levels can pose health risks. According to the CDC, from August 2021 to August 2023, about 11% of adults aged 20 and older had high total cholesterol (240 mg/dL or more), with adults aged 40–59 being the most affected borderline high amount. Additionally, around 14% of adults have low HDL cholesterol, which is more common in men (21%) than women (7%).

High Cholesterol Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks

High cholesterol happens when levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as "bad" cholesterol, become too high in the blood. This can cause plaque buildup in the arteries, raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.

Causes of High Cholesterol

Several factors contribute to high cholesterol, including:

• Poor diet: Consuming excessive saturated and trans fats raises LDL levels.
• Lack of exercise: Physical inactivity can lead to weight gain and lower "good" HDL cholesterol.
• Genetics: Some people inherit conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia, making them more prone to high cholesterol.
• Obesity: Excess weight is linked to higher LDL and lower HDL cholesterol.
• Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces HDL cholesterol, increasing the risk of plaque buildup.
• Certain medications: Some drugs, like steroids and diuretics, may raise cholesterol levels.

Symptoms of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is often called a "silent" condition because it usually has no noticeable symptoms. However, in severe cases, it may cause:

• Chest pain (angina): Resulting from reduced blood flow to the heart.
• Xanthomas: Fatty deposits that form under the skin, often around the eyes.

Health Risks of High Cholesterol

Untreated high cholesterol significantly increases the risk of:

• Atherosclerosis: Hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup.
• Heart attack and stroke: Blocked arteries can cut off blood supply to the heart or brain.
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Reduced circulation, typically affecting the legs.

Regular cholesterol screenings and lifestyle changes can help manage cholesterol levels and reduce these risks.

Know Your Cholesterol, Protect Your Heart

Take control of your heart health by understanding your cholesterol levels. Book a cholesterol test today and receive personalized guidance for maintaining balanced cholesterol and reducing your risk of heart disease.

Low Cholesterol Levels: Causes, Symptoms, and Risks

While high cholesterol is widely recognized as a health concern, low cholesterol levels can also be problematic. Cholesterol is essential for hormone production, cell membrane integrity, and brain function. When levels drop too low, it may lead to various health issues.

Causes of Low Cholesterol

Several factors can contribute to abnormally low cholesterol levels, including:

• Malnutrition: Insufficient intake of fats and essential nutrients can lower cholesterol production.
• Liver disease: Since the liver produces cholesterol, conditions like cirrhosis or hepatitis can reduce its levels.
• Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid increases metabolism, leading to lower cholesterol levels.
• Genetic conditions: Some inherited disorders, such as abetalipoproteinemia, can prevent proper cholesterol absorption or production.

Symptoms of Low Cholesterol

Unlike high cholesterol, which is often asymptomatic, low cholesterol can present noticeable symptoms, including:

• Anxiety and depression: Cholesterol plays a role in brain function and serotonin production, and low levels may contribute to mood disorders.
• Fatigue and weakness: Essential for cell energy and hormone balance, low cholesterol can lead to chronic fatigue.
• Hormonal imbalances: Cholesterol is a building block for hormones like estrogen and testosterone, so low levels may affect reproductive health.

Health Risks of Low Cholesterol

Persistently low cholesterol levels have been associated with:

• Mental health disorders: Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and mood instability.
• Weakened immune function: Reduced cholesterol may impair the body's ability to fight infections.
• Hemorrhagic stroke: Low cholesterol has been linked to an increased risk of bleeding in the brain.

Monitoring cholesterol levels and addressing underlying causes can help with cholesterol numbers maintain overall health and well-being.

Tips for Managing Cholesterol Levels

Maintaining balanced cholesterol levels is key to heart health. Whether you need to raise or lower your cholesterol, lifestyle, lifestyle and dietary changes can make a significant impact.

How to Increase Cholesterol Levels

If your cholesterol is too low, consider these strategies how much cholesterol:

• Healthy diet: Incorporate foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. Soluble fiber from oats, beans, and lentils can also help regulate cholesterol.
• Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
• Quit smoking: Smoking lowers HDL ("good") cholesterol, but quitting can help restore healthy levels and improve overall cardiovascular function.

How to Lower Cholesterol Levels

If your cholesterol is too high, these steps can help:

• Avoid trans fats and sugary foods: Limit processed foods and focus on whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, and heart-healthy fats.
• Medications: In some cases, statins or other cholesterol-lowering drugs may be necessary — always follow your doctor's guidance.
• Regular testing: Monitor your cholesterol levels through routine blood tests to track progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

By making smart lifestyle choices and working with a healthcare provider, you can effectively manage your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease.

Take Charge of Your Health Today

Understanding your cholesterol levels is the first step toward a healthier heart. Whether you need to raise or lower your cholesterol, regular testing helps you stay on track. At Osprey PolyClinic, we provide expert guidance and personalized care to help you achieve optimal heart health. If you're in Sarasota or SW Florida, contact us today to book a cholesterol test and take control of your well-being. Your heart deserves the best care — start your journey to better health now!