We can review your blood test results from a functional medicine perspective, focusing on identifying underlying imbalances and optimizing your overall health, rather than just addressing symptoms. Please note, that while we cannot diagnose medical conditions, we can provide insights and recommendations to support your wellness journey. So, let’s understand why keeping cholesterol levels check is important in this blog.
Have You Had Your Cholesterol Levels Checked Recently?
Chronic diseases like cardiovascular conditions are some of the most pressing health concerns we face today. High blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes are all too common across the world. The good news is that understanding the root causes and making smart lifestyle choices can make a world of difference. Let’s talk about into role cholesterol plays in these conditions, how to manage it naturally, and why monitoring your levels is so important.
Cholesterol often gets a bad reputation, but it’s not all bad. Your body needs cholesterol to build cells, produce hormones, and aid digestion. Problems arise when LDL cholesterol, often called “bad cholesterol” builds up in your arteries, leading to blockages that increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. High cholesterol can be caused by a combination of factors, including a poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and even genetics.
To manage high cholesterol, statins are commonly prescribed. These medications can be lifesaving for those at risk, but they’re not without side effects. One lesser-known issue with statins is that they can deplete your body’s levels of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 is crucial for energy production in cells and acts as a powerful antioxidant. Low levels of CoQ10 can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness, and even heart problems…..ironically, the very thing statins are meant to protect against.
What can you do to support your heart health and monitor cholesterol level?
A heart-friendly diet is a great place to start. Focus on incorporating foods like:
Oats and whole grains: Packed with soluble fibre that helps reduce LDL cholesterol.
Fatty fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which lower triglycerides and support heart health.
Nuts and seeds: Full of healthy fats and plant sterols that block cholesterol absorption.
Fruits and vegetables: Loaded with antioxidants and fiber to combat oxidative stress and inflammation. The darker the fruit the more antioxidants it has. I prefer to eat berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, cherries as they are excellent sources of nutrition. I add them to my porridge and oat bran every morning. Frozen cherries so I have them all year round.
Olive oil: A staple of the Mediterranean diet, known for its heart-protective properties.
Avoid processed foods, trans fats, and excessive sugar, as these can raise LDL cholesterol and promote inflammation.
If you’re unsure about your cholesterol levels check, getting a reading is easy and can provide valuable insights into your heart health. Many GP clinics and pharmacies offer cholesterol tests, and some even provide instant results. Regular monitoring is essential, especially if you have a family history of heart disease or other risk factors. Knowing your numbers allows you to take proactive steps to protect your health.
Remember, managing cholesterol isn’t just about reducing the “bad” LDL cholesterol; it’s also about increasing the “good” HDL cholesterol, which helps remove LDL from your bloodstream. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can all boost your HDL levels naturally.
Your heart works hard for you every day. By understanding cholesterol and making heart-healthy choices, you can reduce your risk of chronic diseases and enjoy a longer, healthier life. Whether it’s adjusting your diet, considering supplements like CoQ10, or scheduling that cholesterol check, every step you take brings you closer to better heart health. If you are unsure of your blood test readings please visit our clinic and our Nutritional Therapist Erika will go through your blood tests in great detail.
Your heart health is important! Book your cholesterol check today at Optimal Wellness.