5 Lifestyle Changes That Will Help To Lower Bad Cholesterol In Our Body During Winters

 We all need some cholesterol in our bodies to function, but having too much can clog the arteries and contribute to future health concerns, including heart disease.

New Delhi: Winters can raise the risk of a variety of diseases and health disorders, owing to our sedentary lifestyle throughout the season, as well as the fact that we consume more high-calorie foods during this time. While pakoras, fries, and bread rolls may seem delicious with a cup of tea, eating them on a regular basis can raise our bad cholesterol levels, or LDL (low-density lipoprotein). But, before coming to that, let's see what is cholesterol.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is the most well-known member of the steroid lipid family. It is a waxy, fat-like material found largely in animal and human cells, where it also serves as the primary sterol. All cells and other bodily fluids contain some cholesterol, either free or stored.

It is a kind of blood lipid produced by the liver. It can also be found in various foods.  We all need some cholesterol in our bodies to function, but having too much can clog the arteries and contribute to future health concerns, including heart disease.

Types Of Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is divided into two types: HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol:

HDL - High-Density Lipoprotein - is considered beneficial cholesterol since it transports cholesterol from body cells to your liver for breakdown. A high HDL level also protects against heart disease and stroke. 

LDL Cholesterol:

LDL - Low-Density Lipoprotein - This type of cholesterol is regarded as harmful since it is linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Too much LDL cholesterol in the blood can progressively create plaque, obstructing blood flow and forming a clot. A heart attack may occur due to a clot or masses in the blood channels around the heart. LDL cholesterol levels should be fewer than 100. The liver and intestines are important in managing LDL levels in our blood cells.

Lifestyle Changes To Lower The Levels Of Bad Cholesterol In The Body:

1. Continue to exercise at home, or if there is sun outside, go for a stroll or work out.

2. Avoid eating too much fried/high-sugar food and instead eat at least 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Soluble fibre, such as green vegetables, eggplant, okra, oats, grain, such as barley, and whole pulses, can also help lower cholesterol.

3. Add Whey Protein to your diet which is found in dairy products. Whey protein used as a supplement has been demonstrated in studies to lower LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and blood pressure.

4. Quitting smoking raises your HDL cholesterol and your blood pressure and pulse rate will return to normal. In addition, blood circulation and lung function will improve.

5. A high salt intake in your diet might cause blood pressure to rise. High blood pressure raises the risk of various cardiac problems in the long run. Limiting your sodium intake can help you maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

6. In addition to other heart-healthy variables, eating 2 ounces of nuts per day such as almonds, walnuts, and peanuts can lower LDL by up to 5%.