increase in cholesterol - #19411
I am dealing with some serious health stuff and just wanted to reach out. About a month ago, I went for my annual checkup and found out that there's been a significant increase in cholesterol levels. I mean, I've always been careful about my diet and thought I was doing ok, but now I'm starting to freak out! The doctor recommended medication but I’m hesitant. I asked if there are natural ways to bring down this increase in cholesterol, and he mentioned diet and exercise. But I’m honestly confused about what exactly to change, like, do I need to cut out all fats? Or can I still eat avocados? Also, I’ve heard things like stress can play a role too, but is that really true? I’ve been a bit more stressed out on top of everything, juggling work and family issues. My mom had high cholesterol, and it scares me thinking about the genetic factor too. I want to avoid meds if possible, but is it safe to just rely on lifestyle changes? Like, how long does it usually take to see a change in cholesterol levels when making those changes? I really wanna take charge of this and not just let it spiral out of control. Any advice about managing this increase in cholesterol would be super helpful. Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
A rise in cholesterol levels can indeed be concerning, and it’s understandable to want to tackle it naturally if possible. While medications can be important for some, lifestyle changes often play a crucial part in managing cholesterol. Let’s clarify a few key points: When it comes to diet, not all fats are created equal. It’s generally advisable to avoid or limit saturated fats found in fried foods, red meats, and full-fat dairy products. Instead, focus on heart-healthy unsaturated fats like those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil. These can actually help improve cholesterol profiles. Including more fiber-rich foods such as oats, beans, fruits, and vegetables can also be beneficial since they can lower LDL (“bad” cholesterol) levels. Exercise is another pillar; aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, which helps improve HDL (“good” cholesterol) and overall cardiovascular health. Managing stress is indeed relevant: Chronic stress can contribute to cholesterol problems, potentially through stress hormones that increase bad cholesterol levels. Try integrating stress-reducing practices like regular physical activity, mindfulness, or even simple deep-breathing exercises. Genetics do play a role, which is essential to consider; if there’s a family history, you do have added risk. However, many find success by modifying lifestyle factors, potentially avoiding the need for medications—though this isn’t guaranteed for everyone. Monitoring your progress is important. Typically, meaningful changes in cholesterol levels might be seen within a few months, but it varies by individual. Work closely with your healthcare provider to regularly check your cholesterol and assess the effectiveness of your efforts. If levels remain significantly high, medication might be necessary to mitigate risks of cardiovascular disease. Make these lifestyle changes part of a long-term commitment and regularly consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you’re on the right track.
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