Mon-Sat: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sun: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM +91 84200 70081 / +91 drkartik@drbhosalekartik.com 8420070082 Email Us: Call Us: Home About Us Cardiology Services Other Services Blogs Contact Us Book An Appointment Patient Care For Doctors HOW CHOLESTEROL IS LINKED TO HEART DISEASE? Home / Recent News, Blog and Articles Recent Posts Why Do More People Get Heart Disease in Winter? 09/12/2024 How Cholesterol Is Linked to Heart Disease? 21/11/2024 By Dr. Kartik Bhosale | 21/11/2024 How Cholesterol Is Linked To Heart Disease? Cholesterol often gets a bad reputation when it comes to heart health, but the reality is more complex. Cholesterol is an essential lipid, or fat, that plays crucial roles in the body, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, an excess of certain types of cholesterol can lead to heart disease, which remains the leading cause of death worldwide. As one of the Best Cardiologists in Pune, Dr. Kartik Bhosale explains the link between cholesterol and heart disease and emphasizes why managing cholesterol is essential for optimal heart health. What Is Cholesterol? Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the bloodstream and is also present in foods. Produced primarily by the liver, it travels through the bloodstream in particles known as lipoproteins: Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Referred to as “bad” cholesterol, LDL delivers cholesterol to cells. However, too much LDL in the blood can deposit on artery walls, forming plaques that restrict blood flow, raising the risk of heart disease. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good” cholesterol, HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, carrying it to the liver for processing. Higher HDL levels are beneficial for heart health, as HDL helps prevent the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries. Certain foods, particularly animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs, contain cholesterol. Additionally, diets high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods and processed snacks, can raise LDL cholesterol. Heart Specialists in Pune like Dr. Kartik Bhosale stress the importance of balancing these cholesterol levels to protect cardiovascular health. How High Cholesterol Leads to Heart Disease? The connection between high cholesterol and heart disease The Benefits of a Stress Echocardiogram: When to Get One? 11/11/2024 Irregular Sleep Can Increase Your Risk of Heart Disease 14/10/2024 How an ECG Can Help Diagnose Silent Heart Conditions? 27/09/2024 develops over time and can often go unnoticed. Here’s how it directly impacts heart health: Formation of Plaque in Arteries: When excess LDL cholesterol circulates in the bloodstream, it can deposit on artery walls, forming hardened plaques – a condition known as atherosclerosis. Plaque buildup narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow freely. Reduced blood flow increases the risk of chest pain (angina), heart attack, or stroke. Inflammation and Artery Damage: The body treats cholesterol plaque buildup as an injury, leading to inflammation as a defense response. Over time, inflamed artery walls can rupture, leading to blood clot formation. These clots can then block blood flow and, if this blockage occurs in coronary arteries (which supply blood to the heart), it may cause a heart attack. Risk of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): High cholesterol impacts not only the heart but also circulation to other body parts, especially the legs. Plaque buildup in the arteries supplying blood to the legs can cause Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), leading to pain and difficulty walking. PAD is also a significant marker of systemic atherosclerosis, signaling increased risks for heart disease and stroke. Who is at Risk? Certain factors heighten the risk of high cholesterol and subsequent heart disease, including: Genetics: Family history plays a role, as some individuals inherit high cholesterol levels, known as familial hypercholesterolemia. Diet: Diets high in saturated fats and trans fats raise LDL cholesterol. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of exercise can lower HDL cholesterol, increasing the risk. Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels typically rise with age, with men generally having higher cholesterol than women, though postmenopausal women also have an increased risk. Smoking: Smoking damages artery walls, making it easier for cholesterol to accumulate and form plaques. Dr. Kartik Bhosale, a trusted Heart Doctor in Pune, recommends that those with family history, unhealthy diets, or lifestyle habits that raise cholesterol get regular screenings. Managing Cholesterol for Heart Health: Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is achievable with lifestyle changes, and sometimes, medication. Here’s how Dr. Kartik Bhosale advises patients to manage cholesterol: Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: The best way to lower cholesterol through diet is to reduce saturated and trans fats, limiting intake of red meat and full-fat dairy. Instead, focus on a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil. Reducing processed foods also minimizes unhealthy fats that elevate LDL levels. Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Physical activity boosts HDL cholesterol while helping manage LDL levels. Heart Specialists in Pune often recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week. Brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can contribute significantly to improved cholesterol and blood pressure. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Carrying extra weight, particularly around the waist, is linked to elevated LDL cholesterol. Through a balanced diet and regular exercise, weight management can lower cholesterol and improve overall heart health. Quit Smoking: Smoking directly impacts cholesterol, lowering HDL levels and contributing to plaque buildup in arteries. By quitting smoking, individuals can improve HDL levels, reduce blood pressure, and support better cardiovascular health. Conclusion: Protecting Your Heart Starts with Cholesterol Awareness Understanding the link among cholesterol and heart sickness permits you to assume command over your heart wellbeing. While cholesterol is fundamental, it can become perilous when abundance LDL develops, narrowing veins and increasing the gamble of heart assaults and strokes. Dr. Kartik Bhosale, one of the Most Best Cardiologists in Pune, gives master direction and care to help patients comprehend and deal with their cholesterol. In the event that you’re worried about cholesterol levels or have inquiries regarding heart illness, consulting with a believed Heart Doctor in Pune like Dr. Kartik Bhosale is a crucial initial step. With the right insights and proactive measures, managing cholesterol turns into a fundamental instrument for a better heart and a more drawn-out, more dynamic life Subscribe Our Newsletter: Stay informed and empowered with the latest updates, expert tips, and valuable insights on heart health and overall well-being. By subscribing to our newsletter, you’ll receive regular updates on cardiology advancements, lifestyle advice, health check-up camps, and more—delivered straight to your inbox. Join our community and take the first step toward a healthier tomorrow! Email Address * Related Tags: Share: Subscribe! 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