Cholesterol: identify the risks, avoid the follow up diseases

Cholesterol is not only harmful, as is commonly reported – this dietary fat is incredibly important for the human body. But consuming too much cholesterol over an extended period of time can lead to problems.

Cholesterol is involved in many metabolic processes in the human body, such as the formation of hormones, bile acid or vitamin D. The cell membrane, i.e., the membrane that surrounds our body’s cells, also contains cholesterol. Much of this is produced in the body itself, especially in the liver. If we consume little cholesterol in our diet, it is produced more in the body. If the intake is higher, the body produces less cholesterol. However, this is only possible up to a certain point. If the intake exceeds the body's own regulatory capabilities, the cholesterol level in the blood rises.

LDL and HDL - the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterols

Due to its fat-like structure, cholesterol is water insoluble. In order to transport cholesterol to where it needs to be within our body, protein is needed. This combination of cholesterol and protein is known as lipoprotein (lipos is Greek for fat). LDL- cholesterol stands for low-density-lipoprotein. Its function is to transport cholesterol from the liver to our body’s cells. If absorption by cells is not possible, LDL cholesterol stays in the blood and changes its chemical structure. Immune cells in the blood absorb this LDL cholesterol and deposit it in the walls of the blood vessels - this can lead to arteriosclerosis. A high level of LDL cholesterol is therefore associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular problems/ diseases.

This is where HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) comes into play. Its task is to absorb the cholesterol that has been deposited on the walls of the blood vessels and then transport it back to the liver. In the liver, the cholesterol is converted into bile acid, among other things, and partly excreted. Normal to high HDL levels therefore offer protection against arteriosclerosis and reduce the risk of diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Hypercholesterolaemia - When Fat Metabolism Goes Crazy

Hypercholesterolaemia is a fat metabolism and occurs when LDL cholesterol levels in the blood are elevated. The reason for this is mainly hereditary predispositions in connection with a certain lifestyle. A very high-fat diet, lack of exercise, being overweight, or obesity can greatly increase the risk of developing hypercholesterolaemia. Other reasons for high cholesterol can be liver or kidney disease, bile duct obstruction or hypothyroidism. Taking certain medications and hormonal changes during menopause or pregnancy can also trigger hypercholesterolaemia.

How can I Identify Elevated Cholesterol Levels?

Basically, elevated cholesterol levels do not cause any symptoms at first. In some cases, pimple-like skin changes can occur, called xanthomas. These often form on the arms, legs, eyelids, or buttocks. If the cholesterol level has been high for several years, blood vessels may become narrowed. This can cause symptoms such as a feeling of tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, dizziness, impaired consciousness or vision, and leg pain.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Those who want to protect themselves against elevated cholesterol levels should pay attention to a balanced, high-fibre diet, get enough exercise, and keep risk factors - such as obesity or the consumption of alcohol and tobacco - as low as possible or even avoid them altogether. Numerous plant extracts have also been examined in medical studies for their effect on lipid levels in the human body. Among them are berberine and garlic. The majority of the studies evaluated indicate that berberine alone or in combination with other plant extracts has a positive effect on LDL cholesterol and other blood lipids. Berberine can be used in addition to conventional therapy and could be particularly useful for patients who cannot tolerate statins. Such an intake should always be done in consultation with the attending physician, especially if cholesterol level is already elevated.