Introduction
High Cholesterol is also known medically as Hyperlipidemia and one of the most important discoveries in preventative medicine is that elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood accelerate atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries.
If one or more other risk factors are also present such as high blood pressure, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, diabetes then high cholesterol has proven to be implicated in the promoters of heart disease, strokes and peripheral vascular disease.
It is not only the total cholesterol which needs to be considered but the total lipid profile. The Low Density Lipids (LDL) is considered the “bad” cholesterol as it is subject to potential oxidation in the arterial wall with consequential plaque build up resulting. The High Density Lipids (HDL) are “protective” and act to take the bad oxidized cholesterol back to the liver for processing. The higher the HDL level the lower the risk factor for potential heart problems.
Triglycerides are the most common measurements related to cholesterol but other biomarkers such a C Reactive protein and fibrinogen levels are becoming more relevant in determining patients with the greatest cardiovascular risk.
Causes Of High Cholesterol
1. Diet
Overconsumption of a diet high in saturated fat largely from animal protein sources will lead to high cholesterol.
2. Genetic Predisposition
3. Chronic Stress
Chronic stress produces an over production of the stress hormone adrenalin which is manufactured in the adrenal glands and cholesterol is required for this process. Most hormones in the body are manufactured from cholesterol.
4. Side Effects of Diuretics
Diuretics cause an increase in urinary output and also the loss of essential minerals can occur in the process . This places more stress on the nervous system resulting in increased need for adrenalin and yes you guessed it more cholesterol is needed.
Natural Treatment of High Cholesterol
High Cholesterol levels can successfully be treated in a relatively short period of time. At Mother Natures Pharmacy we will advise you on a wholistic approach according to your individual circumstances and will include the following measures.
1. Diet
The diet is important in controlling high cholesterol and one should avoid simple refined sugars and saturated fats. Sugar acts to raise cholesterol by a chemical reaction in the body whereby it transforms into triglycerides which eventually convert to cholesterol. Saturated fats in the diet act to reduce the livers ability to rid the bloodstream of cholesterol.
The use ofoat bran and pears as well as avocadoes act to lower high cholesterol levels.
2. Nutritional Supplements
3. Herbal Medicine
Certain herbs help to lower cholesterol as well as clear plaque build up from arterial walls
4. Stress Release
It is important to set aside a little time each day for yourself in order to relax and distress. This can take the form of yoga, meditation, aerobic exercise, or just enjoying a hobby.