Understanding Cholesterol – A guide for seniors

Cholesterol is a class of certain organic molecules called lipids. It is a sterol (any of a group of naturally occurring unsaturated steroid alcohols, typically waxy solids), a type of lipid. Cholesterol is biosynthesized (the production of a chemical compound by living beings) by all animal cells and is an essential structural component of animal cell membranes.

 In simple words, cholesterol is a waxy fat substance found in the cells of the body. Our body needs cholesterol to prepare vitamin D, hormones, and substances that aid in digestion. However, having too much cholesterol in the body can cause serious cardiovascular diseases that may prove fatal.

Good and Bad Cholesterol 

Cholesterol is carried by lipoproteins through the bloodstream in the cells. Lipoproteins are particles made up of proteins and fats. Two types of lipoproteins carry cholesterol throughout the body and it is important to have healthy levels of both. 

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is called good cholesterol. It absorbs cholesterol in the blood and carries it back to the liver. The liver removes the cholesterol from the body. If your senior loved ones have a high level of HDL Cholesterol in their body, they lower their chance of suffering from cardiovascular diseases.

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is called bad cholesterol as it leads to the accumulation of cholesterol in arteries. If your senior loved ones have high levels of LDL cholesterol then they are at the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as strokes, coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, etc, and need immediate doctor’s attention.  Elder Care Service providers in Kolkata provide doctor’s assistance services that can be availed for your senior loved ones in the comfort of your home.

What is High Cholesterol

If your senior loved ones have too much cholesterol in their blood then it can be serious. High Cholesterol does not show any symptoms so people may be unaware that they have high cholesterol. Cholesterol can build up on the walls of the arteries resulting in the formation of plaque and in course of time plaque cause the narrowing of the arteries resulting in atherosclerosis which is the hardening of arteries. Coronary arteries bring blood to the heart and narrowing of your coronary arteries due to plaque formation can stop or slow down the flow of blood to the heart resulting in Coronary Artery disease.

Some plaques have a thin covering and the cover can rupture releasing cholesterol and fat into the bloodstream and resulting in the formation of a clot. This clot can block the flow of the blood causing heart attack.

Causes of Cholesterol

Poor Diet:

Consuming food containing trans fatty acids, and saturated fats can increase cholesterol levels to a great extent 

Following a sedentary lifestyle:

Lack of physical movement or exercise can raise the LDL or bad Cholesterol levels in the body 

Obesity:

People who have a body mass index of 30 or more are at risk of developing high cholesterol

Consuming Alcohol:

Drinking too much alcohol can increase the total cholesterol level in the body

Smoking:

Cigarette smoking can lower the level of  good cholesterol in the body 

Aging:

As people age, the liver finds it hard to remove LDL cholesterol from the body

 Steps seniors can follow to reduce their cholesterol levels:-

• Ensure your senior loved ones consume a low-salt diet and increase their intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in their regular diet. Fried foods and foods containing trans fat should be avoided. 

• Encourage your senior loved ones to do some freehand exercises at home. They can also go on a morning or evening walk if they like. If your senior loved ones are under the care of a professional caregiver make sure the caregiver accompanies them while going out for a walk to prevent any mishaps.

• Keep a check on the body weight of your senior loved ones. 

• Help your senior loved ones to manage stress. Spend quality time with them. Go out shopping or on a movie date with them whenever you get time. Encourage them to take up hobbies such as gardening, baking, writing, etc. This will make them feel happy and relaxed.

• Make sure your senior loved ones take their cholesterol medications every day at the same time. 

• Encourage your senior loved ones to quit smoking, if they smoke.

Cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Senior loved ones should incorporate these steps to reduce their cholesterol level and lead a healthy and hearty life.