Do you know why controlling cholesterol levels is so important?

When we talk about cholesterol, many people immediately think of something bad. But the fact is that cholesterol plays an essential role in the body - the problem only arises when there is too much of it.
In this article, you will understand what cholesterol is, what its function is in the body and why keeping its levels under control is essential for preventing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes and hypercholesterolemia.

What is cholesterol and what role does it play in the body?

Cholesterol is a type of natural fat that participates in several important functions in the body. It is present in cell membranes and is essential for the production of hormones, including vitamin D, and bile acids, which help digest fats.
Around 70% of cholesterol is produced by the liver, while 30% comes from food. In other words, even if you maintain a balanced diet, the body still produces cholesterol naturally - and this is essential for the proper functioning of the metabolism.
The problem occurs when cholesterol builds up in the blood, which can lead to clogged arteries and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

"Good cholesterol" and "bad cholesterol": understand the difference

Cholesterol is transported in the blood by substances called lipoproteins, which determine whether it will be beneficial or harmful.

LDL-c: the "bad cholesterol"

Cholesterol linked to low-density lipoprotein (LDL-c) is known as "bad cholesterol". At high levels, it can build up on artery walls and form fatty plaques called atheromas - a process called atherosclerosis.
The ideal is to keep LDL-c levels below 130 mg/dL (for those at increased risk, the doctor can set stricter targets).

HDL: the "good cholesterol"

High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), on the other hand, has the role of removing excess cholesterol from the arteries and taking it back to the liver, where it is eliminated.
It is recommended to keep HDL-c concentrations above 40 mg/dL.

It's also worth keeping an eye on triglycerides (TG), another type of fat present in the blood. When they are high, they increase cardiovascular risk, especially if combined with high LDL-c or low HDL-c concentrations.

Hypercholesterolemia: high cholesterol is a silent disease

Hypercholesterolemia is the name given to high cholesterol and its greatest danger is that it causes no symptoms.
Many people live with the problem without knowing it, and this can lead to serious complications, such as

• acute myocardial infarction (AMI);
• cerebral vascular accident (CVA);
• peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
  

Excess cholesterol causes narrowing of the arteries, which makes it difficult for blood to pass through and puts a strain on the heart.
According to the Brazilian Society of Cardiology (SBC), cardiovascular diseases are responsible for one in three deaths in Brazil, which is equivalent to one death every 40 seconds - a fact that reinforces the importance of prevention and medical follow-up.

Myths and truths about cholesterol

After understanding how cholesterol works, it's worth clearing up some common misconceptions that still circulate around the world. Check out what is myth and what is truth about cholesterol.

• "Only overweight people have high cholesterol."
  Myth. Thin people can also have high cholesterol concentrations.
  Genetics, metabolism and diet all play a role.
• "High cholesterol is always genetic."
  Myth. There are hereditary cases, but lifestyle is the main risk factor.
• "Fiber helps control cholesterol levels."
  True. Soluble fiber reduces the absorption of fats and helps the liver eliminate excess fat.
• "Using coconut oil reduces cholesterol concentrations."
  Myth. There is no scientific proof of this.
• "Trans fats increase cholesterol levels."
  True. Trans fats increase LDL-c concentrations and reduce HDL-c concentrations, which is why they should be avoided.

Changes in cholesterol levels can also be present in childhood. Want to know how? See also: What you need to know to protect children's health.

Taking care of your cholesterol is taking care of your life

Keeping cholesterol levels under control is essential for protecting the heart and ensuring quality of life. With small changes to your routine, you can make a big difference: eat a balanced diet, rich in fiber, fruit and fish that are sources of omega-3; exercise regularly to increase HDL-c concentrations and reduce LDL-c; have regular check-ups and keep up to date with your doctor; and, when necessary, follow the prescribed treatment with the appropriate use of medication.

With information, prevention and continuous care, it is possible to live a better quality of life.

Source:
https://socesp.org.br/sala-de-imprensa/press-release/nutricionista-explica-quais-sao-os-mitos-e-as-verdades-sobre-o-colesterol/
https://www.endocrino.org.br/10-coisas-que-voce-precisa-saber-sobre-o-colesterol/
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/hdl-good-ldl-bad-cholesterol-and-triglycerides