Cholesterol and Triglycerides

The levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream, gradually increase as age advances.

When their values ​​largely exceed the reference values ​​(total cholesterol> 190mg / dl and triglycerides> 150mg / dl), there is a greater predisposition for the occurrence of cardiovascular problems, once the arteries start to become blocked and damaged. This increase is related to genetic factors, as well as to the lifestyle we adopt (smoking, lack of exercise, stress, wrong eating or abuse of certain foods, etc.).

In general, as a control measure, you should measure the values ​​of cholesterol (Total, LDL or “bad cholesterol”, HDL or “good cholesterol”) and triglycerides 1 to 2 times a year. In case of a family or personal history of high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, or if you are taking specific medication for this condition, you should measure it once a month.

The “bad cholesterol” (LDL) value should be less than 115mg / dl and the “good cholesterol” value
(HDL) should be greater than 40mg / dl (for men) and greater than 45mg / dl (for women).

The most affected arteries are the coronary arteries (myocardial infarction), the arteries of the legs and feet and the cerebral vessels. The consumption of antioxidants, becomes particularly important in controlling the harmful effects of triglycerides, since these will prevent the oxidation of fatty acids, thus preventing damage to the artery walls.