Preventing Atherosclerosis During Winter: Tips for Cholesterol Control

Winter isn’t just for weddings or vacations; it can also bring some health challenges. Heart diseases are the most common health concern in winter, like atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fatty deposits clog your arteries. This leads to tightening the blood vessels or making it harder for blood to flow. 

Fortunately, atherosclerosis is treatable. Healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent atherosclerosis. In this blog, we’ll discuss everything about atherosclerosis. If you’re experiencing high cholesterol or other health-related issues, feel free to consult Best Cardiologist in kolkata at BM Birla Heart Hospital.

What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is a common health issue. The condition happens when plaque—a sticky substance made of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other materials—builds up inside the walls of your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When arteries become blocked, blood flow is restricted, which can lead to clots. These clots may cause a heart attack or stroke.

What are the causes of atherosclerosis?

Doctors don't know the exact cause of atherosclerosis. But it may start when the endothelium, the thin layer of cells that lines your arteries, becomes damaged in some way. It's a progressive disease that can begin in childhood.

The common causes of damage to the endothelium include:

• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Inflammation, like from arthritis or lupus
• Obesity or diabetes
• Smoking

Atherosclerosis can put blood flow at risk because your arteries become blocked, and this can lead to clots. It is a common cause of heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease (PAD), which together are referred to as cardiovascular disease.

How is cholesterol measured?

Cholesterol is checked with a blood test. The test measures total cholesterol, LDL ("bad" cholesterol), HDL ("good" cholesterol), and triglycerides. When and how often you should test depends on your family history and risk factors. You can consult with your doctor about your target cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol Level	Total Cholesterol	LDL Cholesterol	HDL Cholesterol
Dangerous	240 and higher	160 and higher	Under 40 (Male) Under 50 (Female)
At Risk	200–239	100–159	40-59 (Male) 50-59 (Female)
Heart-Healthy	Under 200	Under 100	60 and higher

Preventive tips to improve cholesterol level

Here are simple yet effective tips to improve cholesterol levels:

• Eat a healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats.
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even a small amount of weight can help lower bad cholesterol.
• Quit smoking: Stopping smoking improves HDL ("good")cholesterol and overall heart health.
• Limit alcohol: Drinking in moderation can have some benefits, but too much can raise cholesterol levels.
• Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact cholesterol and heart health.

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If you’re experiencing high cholesterol or other health-related issues, feel free to visit the CK Birla Hospital, Kolkata (BMB).

The Final Word 

Winter poses unique challenges for heart health, but simple steps can make a big difference. Eat heart-healthy foods, stay active, manage stress, and schedule regular checkups. Bundle up for brisk walks, opt for lighter meals like warm vegetable soups, and prioritise self-care.

Your heart deserves year-round attention, even during colder months. Proactive choices today can protect your arteries and support long-term health. 

FAQ

 

What are some risk factors for developing atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, diabetes, lack of physical activity, an unhealthy diet, and a family history of heart disease. Age and stress also play a role.

How does smoking increase the risk of atherosclerosis?

Smoking damages the lining of blood vessels, promotes the buildup of fatty deposits, and reduces oxygen levels in the blood. It also increases blood pressure and makes it easier for blood clots to form, raising the risk of atherosclerosis.

What should a heart-healthy diet include?

A heart-healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins like fish and poultry, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats such as olive oil. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, sugar, and processed foods.

How much exercise should one aim for to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis?

Aim for at least 50 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week, like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Regular physical activity helps improve circulation, lower cholesterol, and maintain a healthy weight.