What can I do to lower my cholesterol levels?
January 29, 2022 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Marcus Schneider
Dear Doctor,
My name is Max Schaaf and I am reaching out to you because I am very concerned about my cholesterol levels. Recently, I have noticed that my LDL cholesterol level is significantly elevated and my total cholesterol level is also in the upper range. I lead a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and watch my diet. However, it seems like my body is not able to adequately break down cholesterol.
I am afraid of the health consequences of having high cholesterol levels, such as an increased risk of heart disease or strokes. Therefore, I would like to know what measures I can take to lower my cholesterol levels and improve my health.
Which foods should I avoid and which should I incorporate more into my diet? Are there specific medications that can help me regulate my cholesterol levels? What role does exercise play in this context and which sports are particularly recommended?
I hope you can provide me with some specific tips and advice on how I can lower my cholesterol levels and strengthen my health. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
Max Schaaf
Dear Mr. Schaaf,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an internal medicine doctor. It is understandable that you are concerned about your elevated cholesterol levels, as it is an important risk factor for heart disease and stroke. I will now provide you with some specific tips and advice on how to lower your cholesterol levels and improve your health.
First of all, it is commendable that you already maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise regularly, and watch your diet. However, it may happen that the body is unable to break down cholesterol adequately, leading to elevated levels. There are measures you can take to lower this.
When it comes to diet, it is important to avoid foods high in saturated fats and trans fats, as these can raise cholesterol levels. These include fatty meats and sausages, fast food, fried foods, as well as sweet and fatty snacks. Instead, you should focus on fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, as these can lower cholesterol levels.
Furthermore, certain foods like oats, flaxseeds, soy products, nuts, and avocados, due to their content of healthy unsaturated fats (Omega-3 fatty acids), can help regulate cholesterol levels. It is also important to drink enough water and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks.
If, despite a healthy diet and sufficient exercise, cholesterol levels cannot be adequately lowered, specific medications like statins, fibrates, or PCSK9 inhibitors can be prescribed by a doctor. These medications help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is important to take these medications only under medical supervision and to undergo regular check-ups.
In terms of exercise, physical activity is an important part of lowering cholesterol. Endurance sports like jogging, swimming, cycling, or Nordic walking can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It is recommended to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate endurance training per week to benefit from the health advantages.
In summary, I recommend combining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks, and discussing with your doctor the possibility of medication therapy if necessary.
I hope that these tips and advice can help you lower your cholesterol levels and improve your health. If you have any further questions or need support, I am happy to assist.
Best regards,
Marcus Schneider, Internal Medicine Doctor
