What does it mean when low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is high?

Apr 26, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Pan Yongyuan

Introduction

Elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol may result from consuming excessive high-fat foods, which affects LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Diabetes can increase blood viscosity, impair blood circulation, and lead to elevated blood glucose levels. Obstructive jaundice causes blockage of the bile ducts, preventing timely excretion of bile and resulting in increased cholesterol levels.

Elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol may be physiological or pathological, such as in diabetes or obstructive jaundice, and treatment should target the underlying cause. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Physiological causes

Consuming excessive amounts of high-fat foods in daily diet may affect LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, leading to elevated LDL cholesterol. If the elevation is not severe, special treatment may not be necessary. Reducing intake of high-fat foods and increasing physical activity can gradually improve the condition.

2. Pathological causes

1) Diabetes

Diabetes can make the blood more viscous, impair blood circulation, and lead to abnormally high blood glucose levels, which in turn causes LDL cholesterol abnormalities. Under medical guidance, medications such as insulin aspart injection, insulin glulisine injection, or insulin detemir injection may be used to lower blood glucose and improve symptoms.

2) Obstructive Jaundice

Obstructive jaundice causes bile duct obstruction, preventing timely excretion of bile from the body, thereby resulting in elevated cholesterol levels. As directed by a physician, medications such as taurso-ursodeoxycholic acid capsules, ademetionine enteric-coated tablets, or anti-inflammatory and cholagogue tablets may be used to promote bile excretion and relieve symptoms.

In addition, nephrotic syndrome may also lead to elevated LDL cholesterol. Timely treatment is recommended to prevent worsening of the condition.

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LDL cholesterol 3.4, is medication required?

An LDL cholesterol level of 3.4 generally refers to 3.4 mmol/L, which usually does not require medication. It can be managed through lifestyle modifications. However, if there is a mild elevation, drug treatment under a doctor's guidance may be necessary. In addition, individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol should limit intake of high-cholesterol foods and consume moderate amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables.

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Is LDL cholesterol 3.44 mmol/L severe?

An LDL level of 3.44 mmol/L is generally considered relatively high. The normal value for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is below 3.1 mmol/L. When LDL reaches 3.44 mmol/L, it may increase the risk of coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, and other conditions. Therefore, elevated LDL levels are also referred to as hypercholesterolemia or high LDL cholesterol.

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Which Foods Should Be Eaten Less When LDL Cholesterol Is High?

For patients with high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, intake of high-cholesterol foods should be reduced. High-sugar foods should also be limited, as carbohydrates can be converted into fat and stored in the body once pancreatic β-cell function recovers to normal. Additionally, high-fat foods should be consumed sparingly due to their elevated fat content. Refined grains should likewise be minimized, since they are rapidly converted into glucose after ingestion; this glucose, through carbohydrate–lipid metabolism, is subsequently transformed into fat and stored in the body.

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What causes high low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and how can it be lowered?