May 27, 2025

Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol)

What is Dyslipidemia?

Dyslipidemia refers to abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, which include cholesterol and triglycerides.

It can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

Common types include high LDL (“bad” cholesterol), low HDL (“good” cholesterol), and high triglycerides.

Often called a “silent” condition, dyslipidemia usually has no symptoms.

In rare cases, symptoms may include:

Yellowish skin patches (xanthomas) due to cholesterol deposits.
Chest pain (angina) or other signs of heart disease if cholesterol levels are significantly high.
Most people learn they have high cholesterol through blood tests.

Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can raise LDL levels.
Lack of Physical Activity: Being inactive lowers HDL and can increase LDL.
Obesity: Excess body weight can increase cholesterol and triglycerides.
Genetics: Some people inherit conditions that cause high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia).
Smoking: Lowers HDL and damages blood vessels, making it easier for cholesterol to build up.
Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels naturally rise with age. Men generally have higher cholesterol than pre-menopausal women.
Diabetes: People with diabetes often have higher LDL and triglycerides and lower HDL.
Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress may increase cholesterol levels.

Lipid Profile Blood Test: Measures cholesterol and triglycerides.

Total cholesterol	Below 5 mmol/L
Non-HDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol	Below 4 mmol/L
LDL cholesterol	Below 3 mmol/L
HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol	Above 1 mmol/L for men and 1.2 mmol/L for women
TC:HDL ratio	The lower the better – above 6 is considered a high risk
Triglycerides	Below 2.3 mmol/L (non-fasting) Below 1.7 mmol/L (fasting)

Lifestyle Changes (First Line of Defense)

Eat foods rich in fiber like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Choose healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish.
Avoid trans fats, found in many processed and fried foods.
Reduce intake of saturated fats, present in red meat and full-fat dairy products.
Regular physical activity can help lower LDL and raise HDL.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like brisk walking, most days of the week.
Losing even a small amount of weight can improve cholesterol levels.
Stopping smoking can raise HDL and improve overall heart health.
Reduce alcohol – excessive alcohol intake can raise triglyceride levels.

Medications (If lifestyle changes are insufficient)

Eat a heart-healthy diet: Focus on fresh, whole foods and limit unhealthy fats.
Stay physically active: Engage in regular exercise to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Regular screenings: Have your cholesterol checked at least every 4-6 years, or more frequently if recommended by your doctor.
Maintain a healthy weight: Keeping a healthy weight reduces the risk of high cholesterol.
Manage chronic conditions: Control diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions that can affect cholesterol levels.

For more information or to schedule a cholesterol check, contact us at 8007444