Lifestyle Changes to Control Increased Cholesterol

Author: Priyanka Saxena on Sep 15,2020

Per a result by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), as many as 70 million people in the US are suffering from increased cholesterol levels. People with increased cholesterol levels are prone to developing heart diseases and suffering a heart attack. However, you can take medication to control the increased level of cholesterol in the body, but doing a few lifestyle changes would do.

Before going to the doctor and turning to medications, try a few lifestyle changes. In this post, we’ll be suggesting a few lifestyle changes. Let’s dive:

  1. Exercise Regularly

Cholesterol can be controlled by regularly exercising. Even if you are not overweight, exercising can help with regulating the level of cholesterol in the body. It will help increase HDL cholesterol levels, which is the good cholesterol in the body. Per the US general surgeon, you should do at least 2 hours & 30 minutes of exercise every week, which makes out 30 minutes per day (five days a week). Physical activity is an important part of healthy living and even a small amount of physical activity will keep you healthy & hearty. Like you can turn to the stairs instead of the elevator or go for a 15 minutes walk every morning.

  1. Keep a Check on What you are eating.

Whenever you are buying something for consumption, always read the labels on the food. Make sure that you are keeping a check on the number of saturated fats. Here are some of the foods you should avoid that have high saturated fats content:

  • Fatty meats
  • Whole milk
  • Egg yolks
  • cheese
  • Dairy-based desserts

Limit intake of dessert and intake skinless meats & skim milk.

  1. Always maintain a Healthy Weight.

Even a small increase in weight can contribute to an increased level of cholesterol in the body. Losing 5 to 10 percent of your body weight, even if you are overweight would make it happen. Reducing five percent of your body weight would help with a major reduction in the cholesterol level per the Obesity Action Coalition. Use some food plan calculator, find out how many calories you need throughout the day. Your body weight depends on your physical activity with respect to the calorie intake throughout the day.

  1. Add more vegetables, fruits & nuts.

You should add more fruits, vegetables & nuts if you are on your path to controlling the level of cholesterol in the body. Fruits & dry foods are the best alternatives for your evening snacks as they are sources of unsaturated fats. Fruits and vegetables are rich sources of soluble fibers & they help regulate the cholesterol level by trapping the excessive amount from your body. Here are some foods that are rich in soluble fiber.

  • Kidney beans
  • Lentils
  • Apples
  • Dark leafy greens
  • Edamame (soybeans)
  • Pears

Edamame is very good for those who are suffering from increased levels of cholesterol as they are also rich in isoflavones. Tomatoes are also recommended for isoflavones, which is a cholesterol-busting nutrient. Increase the intake of vegetables throughout the day.

  1. Consider Substituting Your Oils

You do not have to cut down on fats entirely from your diet, you can consider making some changes and substituting your oils. Make important changes to your diet & consider switching to unsaturated fats, which will help with increasing the level of good cholesterol and decreasing the level of bad cholesterol in the body. Use olive oil in place of butter or mayonnaise - that will help with regulating the level of cholesterol level. For cooking, you can use avocado oil, peanut oil, or canola oil for bettering the level of cholesterol. You should consider the level of saturated fats in the body that includes fats that are solid or semi-solid at room temperature.

  1. Consider eliminating trans fats from your daily diet.

Trans fats are responsible for increasing the level of bad cholesterol & decreasing the good cholesterol levels in the body. Trans fats are mostly contained in fried foods & packaged baked foods including crackers & cookies. Make sure that you are checking the ingredients while choosing to buy something in packaged form. It should have zero trans fat and should not contain any hydrogenated oils.

  1. Consider Quitting Smoking.

Per a report from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute most heart diseases & increased levels of cholesterol is caused due to smoking. Smoking hardens the arteries, which results in atherosclerosis. Also, the walls of the arteries get rough due to which cholesterol sticks more easily forming plaques. If you have recently found cholesterol levels to have increased, you must immediately quit smoking.

Summary.

Cholesterol can cause several heart diseases and it makes you prone to heart attacks. Increased levels of cholesterol or on the wrong parts of the body could cause various diseases. Cholesterol much like fats does not dissolve in water. But, there is nothing to worry about, bringing some simple lifestyle changes can help you deal with such a situation. Substitute your oils, exercise regularly, quit smoking, and follow a balanced diet — these simple lifestyle changes will make sure you are overall healthy & hearty. Nothing is impossible if you have the determination and will to get through the situation. To live happy & prosperous life health is a prerequisite - make sure you are taking good care of your health. 

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In some instances, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain or remove a chalazion or stye.Recognizing When to Seek Medical HelpWhile many cases of swollen eyelids can be managed with at-home care, certain situations warrant prompt medical attention:Severe or Persistent SwellingIf the swelling does not improve with home treatment or worsens over time, it is essential to seek medical advice. Persistent swelling may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires professional evaluation and treatment.Vision ChangesAny changes in vision accompanying eyelid swelling, such as blurriness or loss of vision, should be addressed immediately. These symptoms could signal a more significant issue requiring urgent medical care.Systemic SymptomsSwelling accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever, severe headache, or difficulty breathing could indicate a serious infection or allergic reaction that necessitates immediate medical intervention.Treatment Considerations for ChildrenWhen treating swollen eyelids in children, it's essential to approach them with care and consideration. Children's eyes are particularly sensitive, and they may not always communicate discomfort. Treatment often begins with gentle home remedies, like applying a cold compress and ensuring good eyelid hygiene.For persistent or severe cases, professional medical evaluation is crucial. Pediatric ophthalmologists can provide specialized care and appropriate treatments, such as antibiotics for infections or warm compresses for styes. Always seek medical advice if swelling is accompanied by vision changes or systemic symptoms to ensure proper care and prevent complications.Emergency Care for Swollen EyelidsEmergency care for swollen eyelids is crucial when symptoms are severe or accompanied by alarming signs. Seek immediate medical attention if swelling is sudden, intense, or coupled with difficulty breathing, vision changes, or swelling of the throat, as these may indicate anaphylaxis or a serious infection.Emergency care is also necessary for extreme pain, significant vision disturbances, or systemic symptoms like high fever. Prompt intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment. Always prioritize seeking professional help if the severity of the symptoms suggests a potential emergency.Additional TakeawaysConjunctivitis (Pink Eye)Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva and can lead to swollen eyelids. The condition is usually contagious, so good hygiene practices, such as handwashing and avoiding touching the eyes, are essential to prevent spread.Chalazion and Stye ManagementManaging chalazia and styes involves maintaining eyelid hygiene, applying warm compresses, and possibly using topical treatments as prescribed by a healthcare provider. In some cases, surgical intervention may be needed to address persistent or recurrent issues.Addressing Other CausesIf swollen eyelids are caused by systemic conditions or trauma, addressing the root cause is crucial. Treatment plans may involve managing the underlying condition or seeking appropriate care for injuries.ConclusionSwollen eyelids, though often manageable with appropriate care, can be indicative of a range of underlying issues. From allergic reactions and infections to blocked glands and systemic conditions, understanding the causes and treatments is key to effectively addressing this condition. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice when necessary, you can alleviate discomfort and promote overall eye health. If in doubt, consulting with a healthcare provider ensures that you receive the most suitable treatment for your specific situation.FAQsHow do you get rid of swelling in the eye from crying? Swelling in the eye from crying can be reduced with a few simple remedies. Apply a cold compress to the affected area to constrict blood vessels and decrease inflammation. Keeping the head elevated can also help prevent fluid buildup. Additionally, staying hydrated and gently massaging the area can aid in reducing puffiness.Does eye swelling indicate any underlying health condition?Eye swelling can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition, especially if it occurs frequently or is accompanied by other symptoms. Allergies, infections, or systemic conditions such as thyroid issues might be involved. If swelling is persistent or severe, it's wise to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.How do you treat itchy eyelids?Itchy eyelids can be treated by identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Common remedies include using over-the-counter antihistamines for allergies and applying cool, moist compresses to soothe irritation. Keeping eyelids clean with a gentle cleanser can also help. If the itchiness persists or is accompanied by redness, swelling, or discharge, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended for appropriate treatment.