Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol)  

 Hyperlipidemia is a condition characterized by too many fatty substances in the bloodstream which increase one’s risks for atherosclerosis, or a build up of fatty plaques on the walls of the arteries which can block the natural flow of blood.  Lipids are commonly broken down into cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL).  

HDL, or the “good” cholesterol, absorbs cholesterol and transports it back to the liver where it can be flushed from the body.  Studies have shown that high levels of HDL can lower your risk for heart attack and stroke.  

LDL, or the “bad” cholesterol, makes up most of your body’s cholesterol.  It is harmful because it can build up on the walls of the arteries in the form of “plaque”.  Over time, these plaques can build up and cause narrowing of the vessels and restricted blood flow to vital organs leading to damage.  This significantly increases your risk of heart attack and stroke.  

Self-care for those with a diagnosis of hyperlipidemia include a heart-healthy diet, physical activity, weight control, smoking cessation and medication adherence.  

A heart-healthy diet should have a focus on whole grains, fish, fresh fruit and vegetables and should include 20-30 grams of fiber daily.  Saturated fats (foods where the fats are solid at room temperature; mostly found in animal fats) should contribute less than 7% of your daily calories.   

Total fats should contribute 25-35% of you daily calories.  One should focus on less than 200 mg of cholesterol per day.  Absolutely, one should avoid trans fats (those that are used in prepared foods where liquid oils are turned to solid fats like shortening or margarine; anything fried and/or battered will fall in this category); these are the unhealthiest fats of all.  

Risk factors include, but are not limited to: 

  • Diabetes

  • Hypertension

  • Heart Disease

  • Obesity

  • Smoking

  • Inactivity

  • Diets high in saturated fats

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