What is Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is vital for the body to function as normal. The problem arises when cholesterol sticks to the blood vessels and blocks blood supply to the major organs. High cholesterol is one of the major controllable risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart attack and stroke. Approximately 10,000 people die each year in Ireland from CVD.
A cholesterol screening test is available in Lucan Village Pharmacy.
Lowering Cholesterol
The aim in lowering cholesterol is to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol levels. Proven methods to reduce cholesterol levels include:
- improving your diet,
- reducing alcohol consumption,
- quitting smoking,
- increasing physical exercise.
Nutrients that can help to achieve cholesterol lowering include:
- vitamin B3,
- vitamin B6,
- vitamin C,
- essential fatty acids (particularly Omega 3 containing EPA and DHA)
- chromium,
- fibre,
- plant sterols.