With 6 in 10 Indians suffering from high LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), our heart’s health is paramount, especially during festivities like celebrating the new year.
High LDL-C levels, often called “bad” cholesterol, can lead to blockages, increasing the risk of heart disease. Unlike other heart diseases, cholesterol does not show any signs or symptoms, making it a ‘silent killer.’ So, along with enjoying the festivities, we must be aware of the foods we consume.
Many holiday favorites can be high in saturated and trans fats, which can result in the fluctuation of cholesterol levels and increase an individual’s chances of heart disease. Remember, one can maintain heart health by prioritizing timely screenings, having an active lifestyle, eating healthy food, and having regular conversations with the cardiologist in case of an existing heart condition.
Many of us enjoy and long for the festive season, but these are the times when people experience elevated cholesterol levels, especially during or right after the festive season. High LDL-C affects individuals, and festivities can make it easy for an individual to forget to monitor it.
However, this is when one needs to focus on it the most. Following medical advice, staying informed about one’s health, and managing cholesterol is essential. Here are some steps to plan and manage cholesterol this new year:
- Follow a balanced meal plan: During the festive season, monitoring our diet and adhering to a balanced meal plan has added significance. We are bound to be tempted to consume rich food, and this can have a significant impact on our heart, it may increase an individual’s chances of developing or aggravating diseases such as diabetes and cholesterol. Hence, keeping a close watch on what we consume empowers us with the knowledge to make heart-conscious choices.
- Stay Active: Being active is important to keep the heart healthy and keep cholesterol spikes in control. Exercise can help lower our cholesterol levels and improve our overall health. During the festive season, get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days. Brisk walk to yoga, keep the body active and fit.
- Staying well hydrated is the Golden Rule. Water can help to flush out toxins and lower our bad cholesterol levels. During the festive season, one must drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep electrolyte balance and the body refreshed.
- Limit Alcohol Control: Alcohol can raise our cholesterol levels. During the festive season, it is important to reduce the intake of alcohol or avoid it, as it has zero nutritional value and may only cause harm to our health.
- Choose sleep over stress. A good quality sleep is important in between all the running around. Increased stress levels can cause immense pressure on the heart, which can further lead to elevated risk for heart diseases.
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Educate yourself and keep realistic goals. One must understand the difference between bad (LDL) cholesterol and good (HDL) cholesterol, and how dietary choices impact cholesterol levels. This knowledge can help to make informed decisions. Having LDL-C in control helps an individual enhance the quality of one’s life.
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Talk to your cardiologist. During the festive season, consulting one’s cardiologist becomes even more essential. A cardiologist can be the trusted guide who can help effectively manage and control LDL-C levels, ensuring one can fully enjoy the celebrations.
Lastly, high cholesterol is a serious health condition that often leads to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. It is important to keep our cholesterol levels under control, especially during the festive season when one may find it difficult to stay away from unhealthy foods. While celebrations are a time of joy and togetherness, it is essential to remember the most precious gift one can give oneself is the gift of a healthy heart! To ensure heart health CLICK HERE!
