Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance. It’s found with the fats in the bloodstream and cells. Our bodies do need a certain amount of cholesterol for many functions, including the formation of cell membranes and the synthesis of vitamin D.

The body produces its own cholesterol and other sources are mainly animal products like meat, egg yolks, whole-milk products and seafood, which we ingest. The liver removes some of the excess, but the rest is deposited on the inside of the arteries, and herein lies the problem.

The cholesterol can’t dissolve in the blood so it has to be transported by carriers called lipoproteins. There are two main kinds of lipoproteins, HDL and LDL.

HDL or High Density Lipoprotein carries between a third and a quarter of the cholesterol in the blood. It clears cholesterol from the arteries and into the liver where it’s then eliminated from the body. HDL is therefore referred to as 'good' cholesterol. Studies have shown that a HDL level of greater than 40 mg/dl (milligrams per decilitre) is good, and can give some protection against heart attacks.

LDL or Low Density Lipoprotein, the villain of the piece, carries the rest of the cholesterol in the blood. Too much LDL in the blood can cause arteriosclerosis. This is the process whereby cholesterol mixes with other substances and forms plaque, the hard deposits which block arteries. If a blood clot forms near to plaque accretions in a heart artery, a heart attack can result. Similarly, a clot which blocks blood flow to the brain can cause a stroke. LDL should be below 130 mg/dl for a healthy person. Keep in mind that these recommended numbers change regularly based on the newest findings.

A regular cholesterol check will give your total blood cholesterol. In order to find out the LDL and HDL levels you need to fast overnight before a blood sample is taken. If you’re over 40 years and don’t know your cholesterol level, you really should have it checked. Prices in Phuket for a complete cholesterol test are usually less than 800 Baht and the service is available at most hospitals. It’s quick and easy.

Diet also plays a part in controlling cholesterol levels. It used to be believed that a low fat diet is the way to lower the levels. Newer studies show that it’s the types of fats in the diet, rather than the total percentage, that either raises or lowers the cholesterol levels. Dietary control is one of the most difficult lifestyle disciplines to achieve, but it’s vital in maintaining cholesterol levels within acceptable limits.

Regular exercise and stopping smoking are other ways to improve and maintain healthy levels. However, if all these changes don’t do the trick, drugs may be prescribed by your doctor to assist. Recent research has supported the recommendation that, if needed, medication should be prescribed. However, a good diet, regular exercise and reduced alcohol intake are always a better option than taking additional medication, so get your cholesterol levels checked, and discuss with your doctor the options that are available.

Peter Davison is the Manager International Services
at Phuket International Hospital.
Tel: +66 (0)76 249400. Email: info@phuketinternationalhospital.com.