Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is found in your body and it is needed for cellular function, hormone production, and Vitamin D production. Cholesterol is needed for a healthy balanced body. When cholesterol is not in balance it can increase cardiovascular disease risk. Cardiovascular disease may include heart attacks, strokes, and other thrombotic events.
What are the different kinds of Cholesterol out there?
There are several different molecules for cholesterol, I would like to focus on the two main players: the "good" cholesterol HDL and the "bad" cholesterol LDL. HDL is a lipoprotein that carries cholesterol molecules back to the liver so that they can be removed from the body. HLD lowers the risk of cardiovascular risk. LDL is a lipoprotein that carries the cholesterol molecules directly into the tissues and is strongly associated with the buildup of artery-clogging plaque, hence increasing Cardiovascular disease risk.
Does estrogen protect women from high cholesterol?
Yes, endogenous estrogen does have some protective properties against cholesterol. One of the functions of estrogen is the improvement of the Lipid Profile, increasing the HDL levels or the "good" cholesterol. By increasing the HDL you are decreasing Cardiovascular risk compared to men and menopausal women. Estrogen also improves insulin sensitivity, as you know insulin is a molecule that allows sugar to enter the cell. Sugar is used as fuel for energy in the cell, thus allowing the cell to function optimally.
There are adverse effects of exogenous un-opposing estrogen on a cardiovascular system like increased blood triglyceride level, TG is another fatty acid molecule that increases the cardiovascular risk. Exogenous estrogen can increase the risk of thrombotic events like Deep vein thrombosis. Exogenous estrogen has been known to increase the hepatic synthesis of vascular inflammatory markers like CRP.
What can I do to decrease cholesterol?
One of the most important things you can do to lower your cholesterol is to change the way and what you eat. Avoid refined /processed foods, avoid fried foods, eat whole grains, and avoid sugar-sweetened soft drinks and fruit juices. Sometimes the body needs help with managing extra cholesterol, so you may need supplements or medication under the supervision of a physician.
It is very important for a person with elevated cholesterol to be monitored and properly addressed under the supervision of a physician. If you are interested in knowing more about your cholesterol levels please give me a call to schedule a free 15 min phone consultation to see if Functional Medicine is right for you.
