Contrary to popular belief about the dangers of cholesterol, Russian cardiologist and world expert in the field of hypertension and spinal diseases Alexander Shishonin emphasized that cholesterol is absolutely necessary for the body. This was reported by the portal Actualnews.org.
Shishonin explained that cholesterol is the foundation of cell membranes, ensuring their structural integrity and acting as a “binder.” In addition, the liver uses cholesterol to synthesize bile and hormones.
“To consider cholesterol as simply fat is incorrect. In the blood, cholesterol is transported using lipoproteins and moves between the intestines and the liver. Excess cholesterol is returned to the liver for further use,” Shishonin noted.
He also emphasized that low cholesterol levels can increase the risk of developing cancer, since cholesterol is important for an adequate anti-cancer immune response.
The cardiologist urged caution in lowering cholesterol levels, emphasizing that any treatment decisions should be made only by a qualified specialist after an individual examination of the patient. Self-medication can lead to serious and irreversible consequences.
“Currently known cholesterol standards (from 3.3 to 5.5 mmol/l) are inadequate. These standards were developed based on studies among people under 40 years of age when scientists linked high cholesterol levels to the risk of heart attack. Later studies showed that the cause of heart attacks is severe stress, not high cholesterol levels,” concluded Shishonin.
Cardiologist Oleg Varfolomeev told specially for MedicForumwhen high cholesterol becomes a health problem.
“Cholesterol becomes a health problem when its level in the blood significantly exceeds the norm, especially in relation to low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which are known as “bad” cholesterol.”
LDL cholesterol deposits on artery walls, forming plaques. This causes the arteries to narrow and harden, which impedes blood flow and can lead to vascular obstruction. Elevated levels of LDL cholesterol increase the risk of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke.
Major factors that contribute to high cholesterol
- Unhealthy diet: diet high in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol.
- Low physical activity: Lack of physical activity can lead to increased levels of LDL cholesterol and decreased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol.
- Obesity: Being overweight is often associated with more high levels of LDL cholesterol and lower levels of HDL cholesterol.
- Smoking: Smoking damages the walls of blood vessels and lowers the level of HDL cholesterol.
- Genetics: Some people inherit a tendency to have high cholesterol.
“Controlling cholesterol levels includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, stopping smoking and, if necessary, medication prescribed by your doctor.” , says Varfolomeev.
Earlier, MedicForum wrote about the connection between cholesterol and anxiety.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.