High cholesterol has long been associated with an increased risk of heart disease.But did you know that in addition to factors such as diet, exercise and genetics, inflammation can also contribute to sub-optimal cholesterol levels? Centers for Disease Control and Preventionapproximately 86 million US adults have high cholesterol levels, and chronic inflammation is associated with cholesterol. various health conditionsdiabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis and more.
This article explores the fascinating relationship between inflammation and high cholesterol and how one affects the other.
What is the relationship between inflammation and high cholesterol?
There are two types of inflammation, acute and chronic.according to stat pearl, Acute inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, such as when you get a cut or catch a cold. This is a short-term process that helps the body fight off invaders and heal itself. Conversely, chronic inflammation is persistent, low-grade inflammation that persists for weeks, months and even years and can lead to health conditions such as obesity, diabetes and autoimmune diseases. National Institutes of Health.
Chronic inflammation is a type of concern when it comes to cholesterol levels and overall health. Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDCESShe is a registered dietitian and has written a book. 2 days diabetic diet,Tell you eat well“Long-term chronic inflammation can decrease ‘good’ HDL cholesterol while increasing ‘bad’ LDL levels. This inflammation irritates blood vessels, causing plaque build-up and ultimately It can cause atherosclerosis.”
A 2018 study published in nutrients We found that chronic inflammation, in addition to lowering HDL and raising LDL levels, also increased triglycerides and lipoprotein(a), biomarkers of cardiovascular disease. And according to a study published in 2022, Antioxidant, chronic inflammation causes the release of substances that can accumulate cholesterol in artery walls, which can lead to heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Another study for 2022 nutrientsfound that chronic inflammation can upset the balance of fats in the bloodstream, further increasing cholesterol levels.
The reverse is also true, high cholesterol levels can promote inflammation, or by damaging the lining (called) of blood vessels. endothelial dysfunction). According to a 2021 study published in , this triggers an inflammatory response that causes cholesterol to build up and plaque to form, narrowing arteries and increasing the risk of heart disease. International Journal of Molecular Science.
However, there are some steps you can take to keep inflammation and cholesterol levels down.
How to reduce inflammation and prevent high cholesterol
- I eat the anti-inflammatory diet. Focus on antioxidant-rich, whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like salmon and avocados. Equally important: Try to limit or avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and saturated fats that can cause inflammation.
“Eating a diet low in saturated fat and added sugars while increasing your intake of fiber and antioxidants is one of the best ways to combat chronic inflammation,” says Palinski-Wade.
Conclusion
Chronic inflammation can lead to high cholesterol levels by decreasing “good” HDL cholesterol while increasing “bad” LDL levels. It also causes the release of substances that accumulate cholesterol in artery walls, which can lead to atherosclerosis and heart problems. Conversely, high cholesterol can damage the lining of blood vessels and promote inflammation.
To prevent high cholesterol, adopt an anti-inflammatory diet high in nutrient-rich whole foods, exercise regularly, manage stress effectively, maintain a healthy weight, and get quality sleep. give priority to These lifestyle strategies can help reduce inflammation, help manage cholesterol levels, and help improve your overall health and quality of life.
FAQ
1. Can reducing inflammation reduce cholesterol?
Reducing inflammation can help lower cholesterol levels. Chronic inflammation affects how the body makes and removes cholesterol, which can lead to high cholesterol. Aiming to incorporate anti-inflammatory lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on heart health.
2. What are the signs of inflammation in the body?
Signs of inflammation vary, but acute cases may include redness, swelling, pain, and warmth in the affected area. Signs of chronic inflammation are difficult to identify but may include fatigue, fever, and general malaise. However, because chronic inflammation is often internal, it may not have noticeable symptoms and can only be detected by medical tests.
“Chronic inflammation can lead to changes in clinical data such as fatigue, gastrointestinal discomfort, sleep deprivation, and elevated inflammatory markers such as CRP levels,” says Dr. Palinski-Wade.
3. Does an anti-inflammatory diet lower cholesterol?
absolutely.according to NIH (National Institutes of Health)Eating whole, anti-inflammatory, nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, supports heart health and reduces cholesterol.
“Reducing inflammation may not itself lower total cholesterol levels, but many of the dietary changes that can lower inflammation levels can also lower blood lipids,” says Palinski-Wade. says Mr. “For example, adding antioxidant-rich foods can lead to more soluble fiber in your diet, which helps bind cholesterol and transport it out of the body. Added sugars and Reducing dietary intake of saturated fats can help reduce inflammation, and restricting these nutrients in the diet also lowers LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.”
4. What causes abnormally high cholesterol?
Several factors can contribute to abnormally high cholesterol levels.according to American Heart AssociationThese may include a diet high in saturated and trans fats, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, genetic factors and age.
“Abnormally high cholesterol levels can be caused by genetic factors, lifestyle, or underlying medical conditions,” Palinsky-Wade explains. “Smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, or a diet high in saturated fat and sugar with little fiber can all lead to elevated cholesterol levels. And obesity can also raise cholesterol levels in some people.” ”
