Q

What is cholesterol?

A

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is vital to the normal functioning of your body. If levels of cholesterol in your bloodstream are too high, however, cholesterol can be deposited on the walls of your arteries, where it can build up to form "plaque", which can eventually block the blood vessel.

If the arteries of your heart become affected, it slows down the flow of blood through them, possibly resulting in a heart attack.

Q

What can I do about it?

A

If you are diagnosed as having high cholesterol, you may be able to control it by making some changes to your lifestyle -- through diet and exercise. Your doctor can advise you on dietary changes and an exercise program that are just right for you.

Q

Where does cholesterol come from?

A

Your body makes most of its own cholesterol. In fact, we get only a small amount of cholesterol from our diet. Egg yolks and liver contain large amounts of cholesterol, but many foods like fruit, vegetables, and fish are quite low in cholesterol.

Q

What is meant by high cholesterol?

A

It is generally accepted that a total cholesterol level above 5.2 mmol/L (200 mg/dL) adds to the risk of heart disease. More specifically, the LDL-cholesterol should be measured. In people with established heart disease or with many risk factors for heart disease (diabetes, hypertension, smoking, a positive family history for coronary heart disease), the LDL cholesterol should be kept at less than 2.5 mmol/L.

Q

What is unsaturated and saturated fat?

A

There are two main types of fat in the food we eat — saturated and unsaturated. Unsaturated fats come mainly from plants. Saturated fats come mainly from animals sources. Examples are meat, milk, butter, and cheese. Food containing this type of fat should be avoided if you wish to lower your cholesterol. Many processed foods contain saturated fats and should be avoided.

Q

What sort of foods should I avoid and what should I add?

A

Dairy products, eggs, fatty meats, and processed foods are things you should cut down if you want to reduce your cholesterol level.

Cereals, fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, and chicken usually form part of a cholesterol-reducing diet.

Sometimes, however, diet alone is not enough to reduce your cholesterol level. In this case, your doctor may prescribe a medicine to bring the level down.

Q

Is cholesterol the only factor that might contribute to heart disease?

A

No. Other factors that have been shown to increase the risk of developing heart disease include high blood pressure, obesity, lack of exercise, and smoking.