Multimedia Presentation
Some things like High Cholesterol run in the family. This is the case for Dean whos family has to deal with hyperlipidemia. Dean lives in Maywood, New Jersey, where his physician tells him to make some changes to lower his cholesterol. Dean, a 47-year-old senior vice president in New York City, was advised by his doctor to lose weight and exercise to avoid medication for high cholesterol. He lost almost 20 pounds and became fit, but his bad cholesterol and triglycerides increased despite his efforts. His doctor informed him that his condition was genetic, and he needed to start taking a statin medication.He had been exercising regularly, running, walking, going to the gym, and had lost weight.
Dean had always been athletic but was never thin nor overweight. The news left him in shock, considering the hard work he had put in to improve his health. Dean had to go through some trial and error to find the right medication to improve his cholesterol levels, as some medications caused side effects such as muscle pain. However, he eventually found a medication that worked well for him and had a significant impact on his cholesterol levels, bringing them to a normal, acceptable range.
Prevention:
Making heart-healthy lifestyle changes can not only lower cholesterol levels but also prevent the development of high cholesterol. To avoid high cholesterol, it is recommended to follow a low-salt diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This type of diet is low in saturated and trans fats and high in fiber, which helps to lower cholesterol levels. Limiting the consumption of animal fats and using good fats in moderation can also help lower cholesterol. Maintaining a healthy weight by losing extra pounds is another important step in preventing high cholesterol. Quitting smoking, exercising for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week, and managing stress are also beneficial in preventing high cholesterol. Finally, it is recommended to drink alcohol in moderation, if at all, as excessive alcohol consumption can raise cholesterol levels. By adopting these lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing high cholesterol and its associated health problems.
