Nowadays, people do not pay much attention to food and drink, due to this the problem of cholesterol has started increasing a lot. Let us tell you how to avoid this,

Nowadays the problem of high cholesterol is increasing rapidly. This is a condition in which the cholesterol level in the body becomes higher than normal. If it is not taken care of for a long time, it can cause serious diseases like heart attack, stroke and blood pressure. Cholesterol is necessary for the body, but when it increases in excessive amounts, it becomes dangerous.

Habits that increase cholesterol- 

Consuming too much junk food:

Fast food and deep fried items available in the market are rich in trans fat and saturated fat. Frequent consumption of burgers, pizza, French fries and packed snacks increases the level of bad cholesterol (LDL).

Excessive sugar and refined carbs

Sweet items, cold drinks, cakes and white bread contain high sugar, which increases blood sugar as well as affects cholesterol levels.

Lack of physical activity:

Sitting all day, not exercising and lack of activity are also major reasons for increasing cholesterol. Lack of physical activity leads to accumulation of fat in the body, which increases LDL and reduces HDL (good cholesterol).

Smoking and alcohol consumption

Smoking not only harms heart health, it also reduces good cholesterol (HDL). On the other hand, excessive consumption of alcohol increases triglycerides.

Stress and lack of sleep

Constant stress and lack of sleep also affect cholesterol levels. During stress, the cortisol hormone increases in the body, which worsens lipid metabolism.

According to South Denver Cardiology Associates, take these steps to control cholesterol:

Change your diet:

Include green vegetables, fruits, oats, brown rice and high fiber diet. Minimize oily and deep fried food. Instead of saturated fat, use healthy fat like olive oil, flax seeds and nuts.

Do regular exercise.

It is important to walk or do yoga for at least 30 minutes every day. Regular physical activity increases HDL and reduces LDL.

Stay away from smoking and alcohol.

Quitting smoking and alcohol is the most effective way to control high cholesterol.

Manage stress

Control stress through meditation, breathing exercises and adequate sleep.

Get regular checkups done and get lipid profile tests done from time to time. If needed, take medicine as per the doctor's advice.

Ignoring high cholesterol can prove to be dangerous. Wrong eating habits, lifestyle and stress are the main reasons for this. If diet, exercise and healthy habits are adopted in time, then cholesterol can be controlled and heart health can be protected for a long time.