Bad and good cholesterol. Good and bad cholesterol - meaning for humans

Many people are surprised when they first hear about the levels of bad and good cholesterol. We are accustomed to seeing this fat-like substance as only a hidden threat to health. In reality, everything is a little more complicated. It turns out that there are several fractions of lipophilic compounds in the body that can both cause harm to blood vessels and be beneficial. In our review we will talk about the difference and age standards good and bad cholesterol, as well as the reasons for the deviation of the analysis up or down.

Which cholesterol is good and which is bad?

Is increased total cholesterol good or bad? Of course, any disorders of fat metabolism represent serious danger for good health. It is with the high concentration of this organic compound in the blood that scientists associate the risk of developing atherosclerosis and its dangerous cardiovascular complications:

• myocardial infarction;
• new-onset/progressive angina;
• transient ischemic attack;
• acute disorder cerebral circulation– stroke.

However, contrary to popular belief, not all . Moreover, this substance is even necessary for the body and performs a number of important biological functions:

1. Strengthening and imparting elasticity to the cytoplasmic membrane of all cells that make up internal and external organs.
2. Participation in the regulation of cell wall permeability - they become more protected from the damaging effects of the environment.
3. Participation in the process of synthesis of steroid hormones glandular cells adrenal glands
4. Ensuring normal production of bile acids and vitamin D by liver hepatocytes.
5. Ensuring a close connection between the neurons of the brain and spinal cord: Cholesterol is part of the myelin sheath that covers nerve bundles and fibers.

Up to 80% of cholesterol found in human body, produced by liver cells.

Thus, a normal level of cholesterol in the blood (within 3.3-5.2 mmol/l) is necessary for the coordinated work of all internal organs and maintaining the constancy of the internal environment of the human body.

Health problems begin when:

1. A sharp increase in the level of total cholesterol (TC), caused by metabolic pathologies, the action of provoking factors (for example, smoking, alcohol abuse, hereditary predisposition, obesity). Eating disorders - excessive consumption of foods rich in animal fat can also cause increased TC.
2. Dyslipidemia is an imbalance in the ratio of good and bad cholesterol.

Which cholesterol is called good and which is called bad?

The fact is that the fat-like substance produced in liver cells or supplied as part of food is practically insoluble in water. Therefore, it is transported through the bloodstream by special carrier proteins - apolipoproteins. The complex of protein and fat parts is called lipoproprotein (LP). Depending on the chemical structure and the functions performed, several fractions of drugs are distinguished. All of them are presented in the table below.

Name	Size	Chemical composition	Peculiarities
Chylomicrons (CM)	7.5 nm – 1.2 microns	Exogenous triglycerides (up to 85%), cholesterol, cholesteryl esters	Formed in small intestine in the process of absorption of exogenous (lipids supplied with food). When released into the blood, they quickly bind to the transport proteins apoC-ll and apo-E and are cleaved by lipoprotein lipase. The main function of CM is the transfer of dietary fats from the intestines to the liver. Some of the lipids may then enter other tissues and organs. Chylomicrons are not detected in the venous and peripheral blood of a healthy person.
LP SNP (very low density)	30-80 nm	Endogenous triglycerides, phospholipids, cholesterol, cholesteryl esters	LP SNPs act as a carrier of formed cholesterol from the liver to other organs and tissues. In this case, TG and cholesterol can be used immediately as a source of energy or accumulated in the form of fat deposits.
LP NP (low density)	18-26 nm	Cholesterol	LP NP is a fraction of cholesterol formed from VLDL in the process of lipolysis. The level of triglycerides in it is noticeably reduced, and cholesterol occupies almost the entire volume of the lipoprotein particle. Biological role is the transport of endogenous cholesterol from the liver to peripheral tissues.
LP VP ( high density)	8-11 nm	Apolipoproteins A 1 and A2, phospholipids	Transported with the bloodstream through the vascular bed, LP LPs capture “free” cholesterol molecules and transport them to the liver for further processing into bile acids and removal from the body naturally.

The atherogenic effect of LDL (and to a lesser extent VLDL) on the human body has been proven. They are saturated with cholesterol and during transport through the vascular bed they can “lose” some of the lipid molecules. In the presence of provoking factors (damage to the endothelium due to the effects of nicotine, alcohol, metabolic diseases, etc.), free cholesterol settles on the inner wall of the arteries. This is how the pathogenetic mechanism for the development of atherosclerosis is launched. Due to its active participation in this process, LDL is often called bad cholesterol.

High-density lipoproteins have the opposite effect. They cleanse blood vessels of unnecessary cholesterol and have anti-atherogenic properties. Therefore, another name for HDL is good cholesterol.

The risk of developing atherosclerosis and its complications in each individual person depends on the ratio of bad and good cholesterol in a blood test.

Normal lipid profile values

A person needs all fractions of lipoproteins in certain quantities. good and bad cholesterol in women, men and children is presented in the table below.

On the ratio of lipid fractions in the body and the atherogenicity coefficient

It is interesting that, knowing the values ​​of total cholesterol, low- and high-density lipoproteins, doctors can calculate the risk of developing atherosclerosis and its cardiovascular complications in each individual patient. In a lipid profile, this degree of probability is called.

KA is determined by the formula: (OX – LP VP)/LP VP. It reflects the ratio of bad and good cholesterol, that is, its atherogenic and antiatherogenic fractions. The coefficient is considered optimal if its value is in the range of 2.2-3.5.

Reduced CA clinical significance does not have and can even talk about a low risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke. There is no need to intentionally increase it. If this indicator exceeds the norm, it means that the body is dominated by bad cholesterol, and a person needs comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.

The target cholesterol level in patients with diagnosed atherosclerosis is 4 mmol/l. With this indicator, the risk of developing complications of the disease is significantly reduced.

Pathological changes in lipoprotein analysis: what is the reason?

Dyslipidemia – disorders of fat metabolism – is one of the most common pathologies among people over 40 years of age. Therefore, deviations from the norm in tests for cholesterol and its fractions are not at all uncommon. Let's try to figure out what can cause an increase or decrease in the level of lipoproteins in the blood.

Bad cholesterol

Most often, an increase in the concentration of low-density lipoproteins is observed. This may be due to:

• genetic abnormalities (for example, hereditary familial dyslipoproteinemia);
• errors in nutrition (the predominance of animal products and easily digestible carbohydrates in the diet);
• previous abdominal surgery, stenting of arteries;
• smoking;
• alcohol abuse;
• severe psycho-emotional stress or poorly controlled stress;
• diseases of the liver and gall bladder (hepatosis, cirrhosis, cholestasis, cholelithiasis, etc.);
• pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Hypercholesterolemia during pregnancy is considered a variant of the norm: this is how the body of the expectant mother prepares for bearing a child.

An increase in the concentration of bad cholesterol in the blood is an unfavorable prognostic sign for the development of atherosclerosis. This disorder of fat metabolism primarily affects the health of the cardiovascular system. In the patient:

• vascular tone decreases;
• the risk of blood clots increases;
• the possibility of developing myocardial infarction and stroke increases.

The main danger of dislipoproteinemia is a long asymptomatic course. Even with a pronounced shift in the ratio of bad and good cholesterol, patients can feel healthy. Only in some cases do they complain of headaches and dizziness.

If you try to reduce elevated LDL levels by early stage disease, this will help avoid serious problems. To ensure timely diagnosis of fat metabolism disorders, experts from the American Heart Association recommend undergoing a total cholesterol and pipodogram test every 5 years upon reaching the age of 25.

Low cholesterol fraction of LDL is almost never found in medical practice. Under the condition of normal (not reduced) OX values, this indicator indicates minimal risk development of atherosclerosis, and you should not try to raise it with general or medicinal methods.

Good cholesterol

There is also a relationship between the level of HDL and the possibility of developing atherosclerotic arterial lesions in a patient, although it is inverse. A downward deviation in the concentration of good cholesterol with normal or elevated LDL values ​​is the main sign of dyslipidemia.

Among the main causes of dyslipidemia are:

• diabetes;
• chronic liver and kidney diseases;
• hereditary diseases (for example, stage IV hypolipoproteinemia);
• spicy infectious processes caused by bacteria and viruses.

Excess normal values good cholesterol in medical practice, on the contrary, is considered as an antiatherogenic factor: the risk of developing acute or chronic cardiovascular pathology noticeably reduced. However, this statement is only true if changes in analyzes are “provoked” in a healthy way life and the nature of human nutrition. The fact is that high level HDL is also observed in some genetic, chronic somatic diseases. Then it may not perform its biological functions and be useless to the body.

TO pathological reasons increases in good cholesterol levels include:

• hereditary mutations (CPTP deficiency, familial hyperalphalipoproteinemia);
• chronic viral/toxic hepatitis;
• alcoholism and other intoxications.

Having understood the main causes of lipid metabolism disorders, let’s try to figure out how to increase the level of good cholesterol and lower the bad cholesterol. Effective methods for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis, including lifestyle and nutrition correction, as well as drug therapy, are presented in the section below.

How to increase good cholesterol and reduce bad cholesterol?

Correction of dyslipidemia is a complex and lengthy process that can take several months or even years. To effectively reduce the concentration of LDL in the blood, a comprehensive approach is required.

Healthy lifestyle

The advice to pay attention to your lifestyle is the first thing patients with atherosclerosis hear when they visit a doctor. First of all, it is recommended to exclude all possible risk factors for developing the disease:

• smoking;
• alcohol abuse;
• physical inactivity.

Regular intake of nicotine into the body and ethyl alcohol provokes the formation of microdamages in the vascular endothelium. Bad cholesterol molecules easily “stick” to them, thereby triggering pathological process formation of atherosclerotic plaque. How more people smokes (or drinks alcohol), the higher his chances of encountering cardiovascular pathology.

Physical inactivity (lack of physical activity) and accompanying excess weight often cause metabolic disorders in the body, including dyslipidemia.

To restore the balance of good and bad cholesterol in the body, it is recommended:

1. Stop smoking or reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke per day to a minimum.
2. Do not abuse alcohol.
3. Move more. Engage in a sport approved by your doctor. This could be swimming, race walking, yoga or horse riding lessons. The main thing is that you enjoy the activities, but do not overload your cardiovascular system. In addition, try to walk more and gradually increase your level of physical activity.
4. Get slim. At the same time, you should not lose weight suddenly (this can even be dangerous to health), but gradually. Gradually replace unhealthy foods (sweets, chips, fast food, soda) with healthy ones - fruits, vegetables, cereals.

Low-cholesterol diet

Diet is another important stage in the correction of dyslipidemia. Despite the fact that the recommended intake of dietary cholesterol is 300 mg/day, many people significantly exceed this figure every day.

The diet of patients with atherosclerosis should exclude:

• (pork and beef fat are considered especially problematic products in terms of the formation of atherosclerosis - they are refractory and difficult to digest);
• brains, kidneys, liver, tongue and other offal;
• fat milk and dairy products – butter, cream, aged hard cheeses;
• coffee, strong tea and other energy drinks.

It is advisable that the basis of the diet be fresh vegetables and fruits, fiber, which stimulates digestion, cereals. Best sources protein can come from fish (sea fish has a high content of healthy polyunsaturated fatty acids omega-3 - good cholesterol), lean poultry ( chicken breast, turkey), rabbit, lamb.

The drinking regime is discussed with each patient individually. It is optimal to drink up to 2-2.5 liters of water per day. However, when arterial hypertension, chronic diseases kidneys or intestines, this indicator can be adjusted.

How can pharmacology help?

Drug treatment of atherosclerosis is usually prescribed if general measures(lifestyle and diet adjustments) did not bring desired results within 3-4 months. The right combination of drugs can significantly reduce the level of bad LDL.

The first choice remedies are:

1. Statins (Simvastatin, Lovastatin, Atorvastatin). The mechanism of their action is based on the suppression of the key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis by liver cells. Reducing the production of LDL reduces the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation.
2. (preparations based on fibric acid). Their activity is associated with increased utilization of cholesterol and triglycerides by hepatocytes. This medicinal group usually prescribed to patients with excess body weight, as well as with an isolated increase in triglyceride levels (LDL is increased, as a rule, slightly).
3. Bile acid binders (Cholestyramine, Cholestide) are usually prescribed for intolerance to statins or inability to follow a diet. They stimulate the process natural excretion bad cholesterol through the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing the risk of the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
4. Omega 3.6. Biologically active nutritional supplements based on beneficial polyunsaturated fatty acids can significantly increase the level of HDL in the blood. It has been proven that they regular use(monthly courses 2-3 times a year) allows you to achieve a good anti-atherogenic effect and reduce the risk of developing acute/chronic cardiovascular pathology.

Thus, the main task of preventing and treating atherosclerosis is to restore the balance between good and bad cholesterol. Normalizing metabolism will not only have a positive effect on the condition of the body, but will also significantly reduce the risk of the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and related complications.

When it comes to cholesterol in the blood, we often think of it as an organic compound dangerous to our health, which is deposited on the walls of our blood vessels and leads to heart disease and stroke. But is it possible to talk about cholesterol in such a simplified and unambiguous way? Let's look into this.

is a natural (lipophilic - similar to fats) alcohol. Therefore, in many countries it is called not cholesterol, but cholesterol. It is an essential part of the cell membranes of all living organisms, which contain nuclei. Approximately 80% of cholesterol is produced in our body by the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, intestines and gonads, and the remaining 20% ​​enters our body with food of animal origin.

The role of cholesterol. This important compound for our body is involved in:

• creating cell membranes;
• transport of substances across cell membranes;
• maintaining the water level in the body's cells;
• production of antirachitic vitamin D, steroid hormones of the adrenal cortex, male and female sex hormones;
• formation of bile acids.

Besides, latest research they say that cholesterol plays a role important role in activities immune system and brain synapses, including protection against cancer.

Cholesterol solubility. Cholesterol is soluble in fats and organic solvents, but insoluble in water. Based on the fact that the basis of blood is water, and cholesterol is not soluble in it, blood cannot deliver cholesterol to the tissues of the body. As such transport vehicles, the body uses special transporter proteins ( apolipoproteins ), which together with cholesterol create highly soluble complex compounds called lipoproteins.

Types of lipoproteins. Doctors usually classify cholesterol into two categories, colloquially referred to as “good” and “bad” cholesterol. In fact, there is only one type of cholesterol, which, with transport proteins, forms various lipoproteins, the main of which are low density lipoproteins (LDL), high density lipoproteins (HDL) And triglycerides. All of these carriers are made up of protein and fat molecules and carry identical cholesterol molecules.

Two units of measurement are used to measure blood cholesterol levels: mmol/l(millimoles per liter) or mg/dl(milligram per deciliter). In the Russian Federation, mmol/l is used as a standard. Conversion from one unit of measurement to another is carried out as follows:

1mmol/l = 38.665 mg/dl;

1 mg/dL = 0.026 mmol/L.

Low density lipoproteins (LDL) often called "bad" cholesterol. It consists of lipids (from λίπος, lípos - fat) and proteins, and there are more lipid molecules compared to protein molecules. This type lipoproteins transport cholesterol from the site of their production to peripheral tissues.

Excessive amounts of LDL can cause plaque to form in the blood vessels, which can increase the risk of developing coronary disease heart and stroke. That's why it is called "bad" cholesterol. Optimal LDL level for a healthy person is less than 2.6 mmol/l (100 mg/dl). If you already have heart disease, you should aim to keep your LDL levels below 1.82 mmol/L (70 mg/dL). While less bad cholesterol is beneficial, a level of 2.6 to 3.35 mmol/L (100 to 129 mg/dL) is considered close to optimal. Once it rises to 3.38-4.13 mmol/L (130-159 mg/dL), it is classified as borderline high. An LDL level of 4.16 to 4.91 mmol/L (160 to 189 mg/dL) is high, and 4.94 mmol/L or higher (190 mg/dL or higher) is very high.

High density lipoproteins (HDL) called "good" protein. HDL has a higher density because it contains more protein molecules. This type of cholesterol can make up up to one third of total cholesterol.

The uniqueness of “good” cholesterol is that it removes excess “bad” cholesterol from the blood, transports it to the liver, and from there it is subsequently excreted from the body. US studies show that raising HDL levels by just 0.026 mmol/L (1 mg/dL) reduces the risk of heart attack by 3%.

The higher its level, the better the protection. A level of 1.56 mmol/L (60 mg/dL) is considered the best, a level from 1.3 to 1.53 mmol/l (50-59 mg/dl) is good, and a level below 1.3 mmol/l (50 mg/dl) for women and 1.04 mmol/l (40 mg/dL) is considered low for men, which may increase the risk of heart disease.

- These are fats in the body, similar to cholesterol. Its level increases with obesity, consumption of large amounts of refined carbohydrates and low physical activity. High triglyceride levels are usually associated with high LDL and low HDL levels, as well as heart disease and diabetes. Optimal level triglycerides below 3.9 mmol/L (150 mg/dL); from 3.9 to 5.17 mmol/l (150-199 mg/dl) is borderline high, from 5.2-12.97 mmol/l (200-499 mg/dl) is high and more than 13 mmol/l (500 mg/dl) – very high.

Total cholesterol level represents the combined levels of HDL and LDL lipoproteins, as well as triglycerides. In general, a total cholesterol level below 5.2 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) is desirable, a level between 5.2 and 6.2 mmol/L (200-239 mg/dL) is borderline high, and a value greater than 6. 2 mmol/l (240 mg/dl) – high.

Cholesterol and atherosclerosis

High blood cholesterol levels are dangerous because they can lead to atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis occurs when cholesterol accumulates on the walls of the arteries in the form of plaque. Atherosclerotic plaques make artery walls thick and stiff, increasing blood pressure and creates a load on the heart. These plaques can accumulate in the cerebral (from the Latin cerebrum - brain) and coronary arteries, which increases the risk of stroke or heart attack.

High LDL and/or low level HDL can be caused by a number of reasons, including genetics. However, making some simple lifestyle changes can help you raise your HDL levels and lower your LDL.

How to raise the level of “good” cholesterol?

Step 1: Avoid Saturated and Trans Fats

They are an important component of human nutrition. However, saturated and trans fats increase the level of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. Saturated fats are primarily found in animal products, although some tropical plants, such as coconuts, also contain saturated fats.

There are natural and artificial trans fats. Natural trans fats are present in meat and dairy products at about 5-8%. Artificial trans fats are formed when chemical treatment saturated fats, which is called "partial hydrogenation".

Saturated fats are the only important factor ensuring an increase in the level of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. Foods high in saturated fat include beef, pork, lamb, all dairy products, fried foods, and various fast foods. Limit your consumption of red meat to five times or less per month. It is recommended to limit your saturated fat intake to 7% of your daily caloric intake. Replace these types of meat with skinless poultry or choose a small piece lean meat. When purchasing foods, make sure they do not contain saturated or trans fats. Low-fat dairy products are a healthier alternative and also include more fish into your diet.

Step 2: Eat healthy. Replacing foods high in saturated fat with foods high in unsaturated fats is one of best options improving HDL levels. Reduce the number of calories you eat.

Omega-3 fatty acids. Foods high in unsaturated fat include fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, herring, mackerel, halibut, sea ​​bass. They contain healthy types of fat called omega-3 fatty acids, which can help increase good cholesterol levels. Eat fish two to three times a week as part of a healthy diet.

Walnuts, almonds, flax seeds and avocados, as well as oils such as canola (Canadian low acid oil), canola, soybean and olive also contain omega-3 fatty acids. These oils should replace animal fats in cooking. They can also be used in salads and pastas.

In addition to lowering "bad" cholesterol and increasing "good" cholesterol, walnuts and nut butters are rich in fiber, antioxidants and alpha-linolenic acid. Add flax seeds to soups, salads, cereals, granola or yogurt.

Omega-3 fatty acids not only raise HDL levels, they also help reduce triglyceride levels, which can prevent heart disease, stroke and other diseases.

Flaxseed and camelina oil. These oils contain a large number of various vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids, including polyunsaturated ones. They have a beneficial effect on blood lipid composition. Reduces the level of “bad” cholesterol. They are used in the morning on an empty stomach, one tablespoon at a time.

Add more whole grains, vegetables and fruits to your diet. Limit your intake of high carbohydrates such as refined sugars and processed foods. Simple sugars and carbohydrates can cause high blood sugar levels, which increases triglyceride levels and lowers good cholesterol levels. Avoid sweet grains white bread, corn flakes.

Whole grain foods include oatmeal, whole grain or wholemeal bread, pasta, brown rice, etc. These types of grains are rich, which has great importance to reduce the level of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. Eat one cup of oatmeal without sugar every day for breakfast, drink grape juice, which will improve your blood cholesterol levels.

Research results have shown that a 12-week low-carb diet is much more effective at increasing HDL than a 12-week low-fat diet. Cutting down on carbohydrates, along with increasing physical activity, will also help you lose excess weight.

Soy protein. Eating foods containing soy protein can increase HDL levels even in people with normal cholesterol levels. People who consume 40 grams of soy protein daily have significant increases in HDL levels. Examples of soy products include tofu (bean curd), soy nuts and soy cheeses.

People with a genetic disease called familial hypercholesterolemia tend to have very high levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, even if they eat optimally. For these people, doctors often recommend pharmaceutical interventions to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Exercise in general helps increase “good” cholesterol and decrease “bad” cholesterol. However, research has indicated that a relatively significant amount of exercise is required to increase HDL levels. It was noted that people who exercised at least 30 minutes at least three times a week were observed to have significantly more high levels"good" cholesterol. If you do not adhere to these recommendations and reduce your training time, it will not be possible to observe an increase in HDL.

Walking, swimming, jogging and various physical activities introduced into your daily life will help raise your HDL levels. To do this, you must burn at least 1,200 calories per week through exercise. Find physical activities that you enjoy and stick to them. Timing your exercise can also be a factor in raising your HDL. When you exercise before eating, you thus stimulate the production of LPPL ( lipoprotein lipases ), which clears fat from blood vessels and reduces triglyceride levels, while clearing the way for HDL.

Within two months of starting regular exercise, you may see a 5 percent increase in your HDL. In studies done, people who walk 6,000 steps daily, as opposed to those who walk 2,000 steps, have an increase in HDL levels of 3 mg/dL. High-density lipoprotein levels increase by an average of 10 mg/dL when performing cardiovascular exercise for at least 30 minutes three times a week.

A sedentary lifestyle increases LDL levels, which in turn increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Step 4: Lose excess weight. Extra pounds increase the level of “bad” cholesterol and reduce the level of “good” cholesterol. According to researchers from Johns Hopkins University (USA), for every 2.2 kg of excess weight loss, HDL cholesterol increases by 0.35 mg/dl. Maintaining a value of 25 or less helps reduce “bad” cholesterol and increase “good” cholesterol. Start a program of exercise and healthy eating to speed up your weight loss. Take a daily walk for 30 minutes, join a gym, etc. to motivate you to lose excess weight. Consult with your doctor first to determine whether exercise is safe for your health.

Step 5. Stop smoking

One way to raise your good cholesterol levels and improve your heart health is to quit smoking. A report from Johns Hopkins University found that people who smoke have lower HDL levels than non-smokers. When quitting smoking for 2 weeks, an increase in HDL levels is already observed. However, don't think that if you don't smoke, you're completely safe. Research published in medical journal Pediatrics International showed that the effects of secondary tobacco smoke reduces HDL levels in both adults and children. Other studies in Japan found that for every 20 cigarettes smoked, good cholesterol levels decreased by about 3.5 mg/dL. Just by quitting smoking you can raise your HDL levels by 10%.

Step 6. Moderate alcohol consumption. Moderate consumption of alcohol, especially red wine, can help raise HDL levels. If you like red wine, you can add a glass of wine to your diet once a day. Red wine contains a substance called resveratrol , which is associated with increased levels of “good” cholesterol. However, remember if you have If you have problems with alcohol, this option for increasing HDL is not suitable for you.

Step 7. Vitamins. To increase HDL levels, the most effective are (niacin, niacin, nicotinamide). Eat more products foods high in niacin, including low-fat dairy products, lean meats, eggs, nuts and fortified breads. If you take a multivitamin, make sure it contains niacin as part of the vitamin list.

Niacin may help raise HDL cholesterol more effectively than drugs prescribed to treat total cholesterol, according to research from the National Institutes of Health. As an added benefit, niacin also helps lower LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides.

Step 8: Drink cranberry juice. Cranberries contain antioxidant polyphenols that protect the body from free radical damage. These polyphenols are also found in red wine and other red, purple and blue foods. plant products. They are believed to be responsible for the effect of increasing HDL levels in the blood. Studies have shown that when daily consumption One glass of cranberry juice (fruit drink) for four weeks increases HDL levels by about 8%.

Step 9: Drink green tea. The slightly bitter taste of green tea comes from chemical substances polyphenols rich in antioxidants. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, green tea polyphenols may help block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, lower total cholesterol, and increase HDL levels in your body. Medical Center suggests drinking two to three cups of green tea daily to reap the benefits. However, people with kidney, stomach, heart or psychological disorders should avoid green tea. It is also necessary to remember about the diuretic properties of green tea, which can lead to the leaching of trace elements necessary for our health.

Step 10. Sterols and stanols. E these substances according to their chemical structure very similar to cholesterol. Therefore, when passing through gastrointestinal tract they are absorbed into the blood instead of cholesterol, and cholesterol is excreted from the body. As a result, the level of total and “bad” cholesterol in the blood decreases.

Sterols and stanols are found in small amounts in vegetables, many grains, legumes, fruits, seeds and nuts. Recently, manufacturers have begun to add them to various products: some margarines, muesli, pastes, Orange juice and porridge.

Modern doctors have been fighting high levels of bad cholesterol for several years now. A large number of people die every day from diseases that provoke excess cholesterol, which requires having a complete understanding of how to deal with such a problem.

The patient seeks help from a doctor and receives a referral for biochemistry. In the test results you can see the following columns: total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins, high-density lipoproteins, triglycerides.

Bad cholesterol is the so-called low-density lipoproteins, which are deposited on the walls of blood vessels and can lead to the development of serious disorders. Bad cholesterol is produced directly in the liver and is a source nutrients, which are delivered throughout the body. Excess cholesterol can be deposited on the walls of blood vessels, which leads to the formation. If efforts are not directed to solving this problem in a timely manner, the result may be complete blockage of blood vessels, which leads to diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis.

(in the blood test indicated in the column high-density lipoproteins) allows you to remove excess bad cholesterol from the walls of blood vessels, which prevents the development of a large number of diseases.

Bad cholesterol can be considered values ​​that do not exceed 3.9 – 6.0 mmol. Indicators may fluctuate depending on the patient’s age and history of diseases. These indicators can be increased by 1.5-2 times, which is the norm. Excess cholesterol is necessary for the rapid and harmonious formation of the fetus. For the expectant mother It is necessary to take regular blood tests to monitor cholesterol, low- and high-density lipoproteins, and triglycerides.

The next indicator is the atherogenic coefficient, which allows you to analyze the ratio of “bad” cholesterol to “good” cholesterol. If the ratio is violated, the risk of developing atherosclerosis increases. The indicators in this case should not exceed the numerical value of 5.1-5.4 mmol.

- These are high-density lipoproteins that help remove excess cholesterol from the walls of blood vessels. If the level of good cholesterol is less than 1.3 mmol, this may indicate serious disorders. In this case, the risk of developing atherosclerosis and heart attack increases. According to statistics, in 10% of cases, sudden death occurs as a result of disturbances in the normal level of good cholesterol.

The best option is to maintain normal levels of good and bad cholesterol. It should be noted that each of the laboratories that determine cholesterol levels has its own standards, exceeding which is fraught with the development of serious pathologies. All of the above indicators of norms were provided by an international laboratory that deals with the problem of high cholesterol.

Dangers

The division of cholesterol into bad and good allows us to classify two types of this building material, depending on the functions that it performs in the human body.

The ratio of bad to good cholesterol indicates possible violations lipid metabolism, which can lead to the development of the following diseases:

• Disorders of the cardiovascular system;
• Hormonal disorders;
• Disturbances in normal functioning thyroid gland and adrenal glands.

The risk group includes people who have hereditary predisposition, to increase cholesterol levels, overweight persons, men over 40 years of age, women during menopause. Also, the risk of increased cholesterol levels may be present in heavy smokers and those people who abuse alcoholic beverages and engage in sedentary lifestyle life.

Tests to determine cholesterol levels are necessary for those who are at risk. This especially applies to those people who have already suffered cardiovascular diseases. These patients may need long-term use drugs of the group, as well as systematic observation by the attending physician.

Cholesterol content in foods

Information about the content of good and bad cholesterol in food allows you to adjust your daily diet and promptly bring the disturbed indicators back to normal. If you have high bad cholesterol, you should avoid eating the following foods:

• Fatty beef, pork, lamb;
• Industrial sausages, sprats, canned food;
• Industrial sweets: cakes, pastries, chocolates;
• Fatty salad dressings, mayonnaise-based sauces;
• Fermented milk products with a high percentage of fat content;
• Butter, margarine;
• Fatty cheeses contain a large amount of cholesterol, so it is recommended to refrain from consuming these foods during treatment;
• You will also have to avoid eating cream, lard and fatty ice cream;
• Additionally, you must refrain from eating fried, salted and peppered foods.

Having received information about which cholesterol is bad and what foods contain it, it is easy to adjust your daily menu:

• Replace the consumption of fatty meat with lean beef or veal and chicken fillet.
• Consume a sufficient amount, which contains a large amount of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 acids. Data valuable substances are also contained in the seed. These products can be consumed neat or used as a salad dressing.
• As a dressing for salads, instead of the usual mayonnaise, it is better to use lemon juice, olive or linseed oil, garlic Sause.

It is also necessary to have information on how to increase the level of good cholesterol, which removes excess “bad” cholesterol from the walls of blood vessels.

• First of all, you need to give preference to legumes, herbs, garlic, fresh and.
• Apples and oats contain a large amount of pectin, which is necessary to normalize lipid metabolism.
• Nai large quantity bad cholesterol found in fatty and fried foods, so you need to give preference to boiled or steamed foods.
• Consumption of ground garlic quickly and effectively normalizes bad cholesterol levels and increases the level of high-density lipoproteins.

With the help of unsaturated fatty acids, which are contained in flaxseed oil, fish oil, greens and legumes, you can quickly cleanse the walls of blood vessels from excess cholesterol and normalize the level of total cholesterol in the blood plasma. Products containing omega-3 components expand the lumen of the vascular walls and effectively fight sclerotic plaques.

Treatment of high cholesterol

The patient is required to strictly comply with the instructions of the attending physician and systematically follow all recommendations.

1. In advanced cases, you may need to take medications that block the production of bad cholesterol directly in the body. Additionally, you may need to take vitamin and mineral complexes. Doctors pay special attention to B vitamins. The drugs have a number of contraindications and side effects, so before starting treatment it is necessary to inform the doctor about existing diseases and, if necessary, list the medications that are currently being used.
2. The second step is to reduce your consumption. fatty foods, include river and sea fish in the diet. works quite quickly and effectively. For help, you can contact a nutritionist who will help you choose a balanced, suitable diet. In this case, fractional meals are required, up to 4-5 times a day in small portions. The patient is also advised to drink enough plain water.
3. The third step is moderate physical activity. In this case, you need to consult with your doctor which type of exercise is suitable in this case. In most cases, preference is given to swimming, yoga, and running.
4. If the patient is overweight, it is necessary to bring it back to normal.

Subject to the recommendations of the attending physician regarding the use of medicines and diet therapy, the impaired indicators return to normal after 2-3 months. If the indicators do not return to normal, it may be necessary to change the treatment regimen and additionally prescribe drugs from the group of fibroic acids, as well as drugs that have a choleretic effect.

In conclusion, I would like to note that cholesterol below normal is bad and requires timely correction. Lack of cholesterol can lead to disruption of the normal functioning of most organs that need the delivery of nutrients and vitamins. Doctors report sad statistics: if the level of total cholesterol is reduced by at least 0.5%, this can lead to the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Both bad and good cholesterol are needed by the human body for normal functioning and maintenance of vital functions. If any violations are detected, it is recommended to immediately contact your doctor. This will allow you to start on time necessary treatment and avoid serious, undesirable consequences.

If you follow all the described recommendations, the ratio of bad and good cholesterol will quickly return to normal. Will further improve lipid metabolism, metabolism and general well-being of the patient. It should be remembered that even if the indicators of bad and good cholesterol have returned to normal, then as a preventative measure you should continue to eat according to the proposed scheme and avoid eating harmful products and refrain from bad habits.

High and low density lipoproteins

Being the most important vital necessary substance In the body, cholesterol exists in two forms, conventionally called “good” and “bad”. Both forms are found in the blood plasma as part of lipoproteins (another name: lipoproteins) - complex compounds consisting of fats and proteins. Good cholesterol is the conventional name for high-density lipoproteins, referred to in medicine as HDL. This substance contains more than two times more proteins than low-density lipoproteins (bad cholesterol).

In addition to proteins, which make up more than half of the structure, HDL contains 25% phospholipids (the basis of cells), 15% cholesterol ( fat-like substance, produced by the liver and supplied with food), some triglycerides (the basis of the body’s fatty tissue).

The main role of “good” cholesterol is the continuous transfer of excess cholesterol from the blood to the liver for processing and further elimination from the body. Therefore, HDL is an anti-atherosclerosis fraction that actively protects the body from serious illnesses, cleaning internal walls blood vessels from accumulations of bad cholesterol in the form of plaques.

Harmful cholesterol (another name: lipids, that is, fats) in combination with special proteins forms complex complexes - low-density lipoproteins. Their designation: LDL.

Functions in the body

Good cholesterol is created in the body in much smaller quantities than bad cholesterol. In addition, HDL is not found in foods and therefore does not enter the body through food.

As a conscientious caretaker of the body, good cholesterol protects human health with its presence. Medical experts rightly call increased HDL levels longevity syndrome.

Good cholesterol has a different name: alpha cholesterol, it is responsible in the body for the error-free functioning of the molecular structure called the cell membrane, necessary tissue renewal, bone growth, insulation of nerve fibers, protection of red blood cells from toxins, and synthesis of sex hormones.

Being building material in the formation of cells for the above components of the body system, beneficial lipoproteins take part in the preservation water balance, remove unnecessary substances from the body that can cause serious diseases.

According to doctors, an increased level of bad cholesterol is not as alarming as a lack of good cholesterol. In this case, the vessels lack protection from blood clots, the risk of heart attacks and strokes increases, a tendency to depression may develop, and female body- hormonal imbalances.

Normal in blood

In people with normal health HDL level should exceed 1 mmol/l. Upper limit the average favorable indicator reaches a value of 1.88 mmol/l. Increasing the level of good cholesterol only benefits the body. With a low HDL value (less than 0.78 mmol/l), the risk of atherosclerosis increases three times.

results good cholesterol divided into the best level (1.55 mmol/l), ranging from 1.3 to 1.54 mmol/l - good, low for women (less than 1.4 mmol/l) and men (1.03 mmol/l ).

If a patient has suffered a heart attack or stroke, then his HDL level is 1-1.6 mmol/l. There is also an updated norm of good cholesterol in the blood for male body from 0.7 to 1.72 mmol/l, the correct HDL level in females is from 0.85 to 2.29 mmol/l.

The balance of bad and good cholesterol is very important for health. It is determined by division overall indicator cholesterol level in blood HDL. Normally, the resulting value should be less than six.

If total cholesterol is increased rate, which is usually considered a signal for cardiovascular disease, then increased value HDL is a decisive indicator and indicates in good condition health of the body.

To determine your good cholesterol level you need to take a test biochemical analysis blood in the clinic, but a more accurate result is guaranteed in special certified laboratories.

Products affecting its level

Good cholesterol is not found in foods, but some of them help increase HDL in the blood. Oat flour, oat bran, fatty fish, food supplements with fish oil, legumes(lentils, green peas, beans), as well as soy products are recommended as the main diet. You can successfully increase the “necessary” cholesterol if you consume the listed products.

In addition to the above, green vegetables, herbs, apples, nuts, flax-seed and flaxseed oil, spices, green tea.

Medicines

The most effective and the least safe medicine To increase HDL levels is nicotinic acid (niacin). Please note that food additives containing nicotinic acid over-the-counter products can damage the liver.

Fibrates help normalize good cholesterol. have an effect on regulating the liver in relation to cholesterol and clearing it from the blood.

Policosanol, a natural plant wax extract that is used as a dietary supplement, may also be prescribed to raise HDL.

Correctly prescribed medication is the key to successful treatment of the patient. To avoid undesirable consequences, before using medications, you should consult your doctor and read the instructions.

The medicine prescribed by the doctor should be taken as directed, but the basis of recovery should be proper nutrition and consumption of foods that increase healthy cholesterol.

By controlling the level of good cholesterol, maintaining proper nutrition, and maintaining your weight at normal levels, you can strengthen your blood vessels and heart and take a fresh look at life.