Christmas is a time to enjoy the company of family and friends and to share meals. But because of this, they are also a serious risk factor for our health, especially cardiovascular health. The combination of excess food and alcohol can lead to an increase in blood cholesterol.
Cholesterol can be defined as a fatty substance that circulates in the body. Its presence is necessary for the cells to be able to perform their function properly. But when it accumulates in excess in the arteries, it can block them and cause very serious problems such as heart attacks or strokes. That is why it is important to control cholesterol and keep it at adequate levels, especially after Christmas, a time of excesses. From Lanier Pharma, we give you some tips to take care of your cholesterol.
How do I know if I have high cholesterol and what can I do to lower it?
The worst aspect of having high cholesterol is that it is a silent problem. There are usually no symptoms until a serious complication occurs. Therefore, the only way to know if you have high cholesterol is to have a blood test. It is worth remembering that experts recommend having a blood test at least once a year, especially after Christmas, as cholesterol levels can rise by up to 10% at this time of year.
The best way to prevent and treat high cholesterol is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This should include a balanced diet and regular physical exercise. The Mediterranean diet is an example of a heart-healthy diet, which is based on the consumption of fruit, vegetables, pulses, whole grains, nuts, fish, extra virgin olive oil, and skimmed or plant sterol-enriched dairy products.
Plant sterols are compounds that occur naturally in some plant-based foods. Their best virtue is that they can block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, thereby reducing its concentration in the blood. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the daily consumption of 1.5-2.4 g of plant sterols can reduce cholesterol by 7% to 10% in 2-3 weeks.
Lanier Pharma has developed Laniercol, a natural product made from natural and organic ingredients, free of gluten, lactose, added sugars, and preservatives. Laniercol is a food supplement that can help you take care of your cholesterol naturally and safely, always under the supervision of a health professional.
Enjoy Christmas without neglecting your cholesterol levels
We encourage you to follow these tips to control your cholesterol and enjoy the festive season without remorse:
- Moderate your consumption of foods rich in saturated and trans fats, such as cold meats, cured cheeses, red meat, pastries, and fried or precooked foods.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it favors the formation of triglycerides and an increase in bad cholesterol (LDL).
- Increase your intake of foods rich in fiber, such as fruit, vegetables, pulses, and wholegrain cereals, as they help to eliminate cholesterol and regulate intestinal transit.
- Incorporate foods containing plant sterols into your diet, which will help to reduce cholesterol naturally and effectively.
- Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes a day, as it improves blood circulation and increases good cholesterol (HDL).
- Hydrate well, drink at least 2 liters of water a day, and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks.
- Get enough rest, sleeping at least 7 hours a day.
- By following these tips, you will be able to take care of your cholesterol and cardiovascular health and enjoy a healthier and happier Christmas. From Lanier Pharma, we wish you a Merry Christmas!
