Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Feb 24: Cholesterol is often blamed on oily and fatty foods, but doctors claim that the majority of this waxy substance is actually produced inside the human body. They said that nearly 75 per cent of cholesterol is made by the liver, while only about 25 per cent comes from dietary sources.
The doctors said that despite its negative reputation, cholesterol is not entirely harmful. At normal levels, it plays a crucial role in building cells and producing essential hormones. However, an imbalance in its types can silently damage the body over time.
Dr Murtaza Khan, a general physician, said that low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), often termed “bad cholesterol”, carries cholesterol from the liver to body cells. Excess LDL can accumulate in artery walls, forming plaques that narrow blood vessels — a condition known as atherosclerosis — significantly increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
“High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), or ‘good cholesterol’, works in the opposite way. It helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transports it back to the liver for elimination, thereby protecting heart health,” he said.
“People often misunderstand cholesterol as entirely harmful, but HDL actually acts as a protective factor,” said Dr Showkat Ahmad, a cardiologist.“The problem begins when LDL levels rise unchecked.”
Another important component is triglycerides, a type of fat that stores unused calories. Elevated triglycerides, especially when combined with high LDL or low HDL, further raise cardiovascular risks. Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL) also contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.
Doctors warn that high cholesterol typically shows no symptoms, making it particularly dangerous.
“Many patients come to us only after a cardiac event, without ever knowing they had high cholesterol,” said Dr Shazia Khan, an internal medicine specialist. “It quietly damages arteries over the years before showing any signs.”
The condition can be detected through a simple blood test known as a fasting lipid profile, conducted after 9–12 hours without food. This test measures LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Medical professionals highlight several contributing factors, including: Diets high in saturated and trans fats, Obesity or excess body weight, Lack of physical activity, increasing age and family history of high cholesterol. They said genetics plays a significant role. Even individuals with a healthy lifestyle can have high cholesterol if it runs in the family.
Doctors emphasise the importance of distinguishing between harmful and beneficial fats.
Trans fats and saturated fats — commonly found in fried foods, baked goods, and processed snacks — raise LDL levels and lower HDL, posing a double risk.
On the other hand, unsaturated fats found in foods like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fish can help reduce bad cholesterol when incorporated into a balanced diet.
“Replacing fried snacks with healthier fat sources can make a measurable difference in cholesterol levels within weeks,” they added.
Experts stress that lifestyle modifications remain the first line of defence against high cholesterol. They said a fibre-rich diet — including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes — helps reduce LDL levels. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids and plant-based proteins like soy are also beneficial.
Weight management plays a key role as well. Doctors say losing even a few kilograms can lower LDL and triglycerides while boosting HDL.
“Regular aerobic exercise can increase good cholesterol by up to five per cent within a couple of months. Quitting smoking can improve HDL levels by nearly 10 per cent,” they said. “For high-risk patients, medication is not optional — it is life-saving,” they said, adding that cholesterol buildup can begin as early as childhood, gradually leading to heart disease later in life.”
Experts recommend maintaining total cholesterol levels below 170 mg/dL in children and adolescents.
Encouragingly, studies suggest that early intervention — including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management — can even help reverse some arterial damage.
According to doctors, cholesterol management is not just about treatment; it’s about prevention. “The earlier you act, the better your chances of avoiding serious heart disease,” they said.
