Prevention is better than cure, according to the old adage. And when it comes to our health, there is most certainly something in that. Modern living brings many risks, not simply of disease but also of chronic conditions that can be life limiting. Identifying and changing behaviour that puts you at risk can help you avoid getting sick and help you lead a longer, healthier life.
Hypertension caused by high cholesterol levels in the blood is one condition that you can avoid or reduce your risk of developing. Hypertension causes your blood pressure to rise, potentially leading to cardiovascular disease and problems with the circulatory system. Where your eating habits lead to high cholesterol, you can take steps to change your diet and reduce those dangerous cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver and also present in certain foods, such as dairy, eggs and meat. Our bodies need it to make vitamin D, to build cell walls and to create the salts in the bile that help us digest fat. However, when we have too much cholesterol, it accumulates on blood vessel walls, narrowing them and making blood flow harder. This puts pressure on the heart because it has to pump more forcibly. The heart and blood vessels become damaged and weakened if the high cholesterol levels aren’t dealt with, leading to further organ damage.
Get your cholesterol levels checked regularly by your GP or practice nurse. You can reduce your levels naturally by changing your diet to cut out products that are high in sodium or salt, hydrogenated oil and trans fats; eat less red meat and fewer dairy products, too.
Include instead in your diet more fruit and vegetables, garlic, soya, oats, walnuts and cereals. Go for fish and seafood rich in omega 3 fatty acids, such as mackerel, salmon and sardines.
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