What does it mean to lower blood lipids?
Disease description:
I went for a medical checkup and found out that I have mild hypertension and high blood lipids. I was told I need to lower my blood lipids. What does "lowering blood lipids" mean?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Lowering blood lipids refers to the process of reducing levels of lipids (such as cholesterol and triglycerides) in the blood through lifestyle modifications or drug therapy. High blood lipid levels are one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, as they promote the formation of atherosclerosis and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The goal of lipid-lowering is to reduce these health risks and maintain cardiovascular health. The main methods of lowering blood lipids include the following:
- Dietary management: Reduce intake of high-cholesterol foods such as organ meats, egg yolks, and fried foods. Increase consumption of foods rich in plant sterols and soluble fiber, such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
- Drug therapy: When lipid levels are excessively high, doctors may prescribe lipid-lowering medications, such as statins, to inhibit cholesterol synthesis.
- Increase physical activity: Regular aerobic exercise can raise HDL (good cholesterol) levels and lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides.
It is recommended to select the optimal treatment plan under a doctor's guidance.
