In this busy life, people have become accustomed to unhealthy lifestyle and irregular eating habits. Due to which the increase in cholesterol levels in the body has also become a common problem. Many people do not take high cholesterol seriously, but let us tell you that high cholesterol can be dangerous for your heart. This condition increases the risk of heart attack. We spoke to experts to know the connection between high cholesterol and heart attack. Dr. Shubhendu Mohanty, Senior Cardiologist of Sharda Hospital, is giving information about this.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a lipid, a fatty substance that is essential for various body functions. It plays an important role in the production of digestive hormones, vitamin D and bile acids in the body. There are two types of cholesterol, one is LDL which is called low-density lipoprotein, which is called bad cholesterol.
The second is high-density lipoprotein, called good cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the body.
What is the connection between cholesterol and heart attacks?
Keeping cholesterol in balance is vital to maintaining heart health. In fact, when LDL cholesterol levels become too high it can contribute to atherosclerosis, a condition in which plaque buildup narrows and hardens the arteries, impeding blood flow. When this blockage increases, not enough blood and oxygen reach the heart, which can potentially lead to heart attack and stroke.
Factors affecting cholesterol levels
High intake of saturated fat and trans fat in the diet
lack of exercise
smoking and being overweight
If someone in the family has cholesterol problems then you may also be at risk of this disease.