Cholesterol is a necessary substance in the human body. Genetically South Africans have inherited high cholesterol levels, making them susceptible to all the problems that go hand-in hand with cholesterol levels that are too high.

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But cholesterol is a natural substance in the human body, which also forms part of all cell membranes. We could not live without it. Cholesterol transports fats to different body parts to provide energy for the different bodily functions. It is also essential for the production of steroid hormones, which are essential to life.

Our bodies produce most of our cholesterol
In fact, most of our cholesterol is produced in the body and about a third is provided by our diet. If we cut out all cholesterol from our diets, our bodies will just start producing more. But it is nevertheless a good idea to stay away from saturated animal fats as overindulgence in these will result in too much cholesterol in the body. This in turn can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition describing the clogging up of the arteries, which could lead to a heart attack.

When it comes to controlling cholesterol levels, there are only two factors over which we have no control. One is age and the other genetic susceptibility. Men over 45 and women over 55 are at risk of developing high cholesterol levels.

Factors you can control
Factors that you can control include managing stress levels, lowering your saturated fat intake, stopping smoking, drinking less, controlling your blood pressure and doing enough exercise. Often cholesterol-reducing medication is also prescribed, but this in itself is not enough without accompanying lifestyle and diet changes.

It is essential to have your cholesterol checked when you visit your GP – you might not even know you have a high cholesterol problem.

(Information from Health and Happiness by Dr Arien van der Merwe)

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