Cholesterol is often mentioned when we talk about health, but what do we really know about it? For many it may seem like a distant problem, but understanding cholesterol from an early age can help maintain a healthy life in the future. In this article, we will explain what cholesterol is, the difference between good and bad cholesterol, and how diet can influence its levels .
What is cholesterol and what is it for?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance found in every cell in the body . It is essential for the production of hormones, vitamin D and substances that help with food digestion . Our body produces all the cholesterol we need, but we also obtain it from foods of animal origin.
Good vs. Good Cholesterol bad cholesterol:
❌ LDL (bad) cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is known as "bad cholesterol" because it can accumulate on the walls of the arteries, forming plaques that narrow and harden the arteries. This can lead to cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
🫀 HDL (good) cholesterol: HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is known as "good cholesterol" because it helps remove LDL from the arteries, transporting it back to the liver, where it is eliminated from the body. High HDL levels are generally associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
Why should we measure cholesterol?
Measuring cholesterol levels is crucial to assessing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Even young people and apparently healthy people can have unbalanced cholesterol levels. It is recommended that adults get tested for cholesterol at least once every 4-6 years , or more frequently if there is a family history of heart disease.
Consequences of having high cholesterol levels:
High cholesterol levels, especially LDL, can lead to the development of plaque in the arteries, causing atherosclerosis. This condition can result in:
🩸 Reduced blood flow to the heart and brain.
🧠 Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
🤒 Peripheral arterial disease.
Does it make sense to have high or low good cholesterol?
Having high levels of HDL cholesterol is generally a positive thing, as it helps protect against heart disease. However, very high HDL levels can also be associated with other health problems, so it's important to maintain a healthy balance.
The importance of nutrition in maintaining cholesterol levels:
Diet plays a vital role in managing cholesterol levels. Here are some dietary tips to keep cholesterol in check:
Reduce saturated and trans fats - These fats, found in fried foods, fatty meats and baked goods, can increase LDL levels.
Increase fiber consumption - Foods rich in fiber, such as oats, fruits, vegetables and legumes, help reduce LDL.
Include healthy fats - Foods like avocados, nuts, and olive oil contain monounsaturated fats that can help raise HDL.
Fatty fish – Fish like salmon, tuna and sardines are rich in omega-3s, which can help reduce LDL levels and increase HDL.
Understanding cholesterol and how it affects health is critical to making informed lifestyle decisions. A balanced diet, combined with regular exercise, can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Start taking care of your heart today and make smart choices for your future!
How Föld Cardio can help: 
When it comes to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, Föld Cardio is an excellent addition to your daily routine. Föld Cardio is formulated with natural ingredients that are scientifically proven to support cardiovascular health.
Föld Cardio is a great source of:
Phytosterols - These compounds of plant origin help block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, contributing to the reduction of LDL levels.
Omega-3 - Derived from sustainable sources, the omega-3 in Föld Cardio helps reduce inflammation and LDL levels, while increasing HDL.
Fiber - Fiber helps reduce LDL cholesterol by binding to it in the digestive system and facilitating its elimination from the body.
Incorporating Föld Cardio into your diet is a simple and effective way to support your heart health. In addition to following a balanced diet and practicing regular exercise, Föld Cardio can be the perfect complement to keep cholesterol levels under control.
