Cholesterol is a waxy-fatty substance that the body requires while making new cells and hormones. Although, important for the body to function optimally, excessive cholesterol (LDL) levels can invite tons of health complications, including heart attack and stroke. While there are many contributing factors to this ‘rise’ in LDL cholesterol (bad) levels, one of the most ignored ones is liver damage, Yes, you read that right, liver problems can cause a spike in cholesterol, and thus create issues for the heart to function properly. This article shares the hidden link between cholesterol and liver health.
How Do Liver Damages Causes High Cholesterol Levels?
The liver, a key organ with various roles like processing nutrients, filtering out toxins, and producing proteins, is crucial for good health. However, when the liver gets damaged, it can lead to a rise in LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often called ‘bad’ cholesterol. This increased LDL level is a risk factor for heart and cardiovascular diseases. But how does one affect the other?
Liver Damage Can Raise Your Cholesterol Levels: Here’s How
When the liver is damaged, it fails to perform the basic responsibility of managing cholesterol levels. Though LDL cholesterol helps build cell membranes and produce hormones, too much of it can cause plaque buildup in the arteries, heightening the risk of heart disease. A damaged liver struggles to process cholesterol properly, causing higher LDL levels and increasing the likelihood of artery-clogging plaque.
Let us understand the role of the liver in affecting cholesterol levels. The liver produces bile, which is essential for breaking down fats and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins. It also creates cholesterol and transforms excess cholesterol into bile acids for elimination. If the liver is unhealthy, this balance is disrupted, leading to too much LDL cholesterol accumulating in the bloodstream.
What Happens When You Have High Cholesterol Levels?
Now that you know what liver damage can do to your heart by raising bad cholesterol levels, take a look at what happens when cholesterol levels are high in your blood. High LDL cholesterol can lead to clogged arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart and raising the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Plaque buildup narrows blood vessels and hampers blood circulation, which can cause high blood pressure and chest pain. Thus, keeping cholesterol levels in check is vital for heart health and overall fitness.
How To Prevent Liver Damage And Manage Cholesterol Levels
If you are suffering from liver disease, make sure to get your cholesterol checked. In order to keep the organ healthy, and bad cholesterol levels under control, consider making certain lifestyle changes such as:
- Following a healthy diet routine (including lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins),
- Exercising regularly,
- Managing your weight, and
- Limiting alcohol intake
These all can keep your liver healthy, and thus prevent high cholesterol risks.
Disclaimer: The information mentioned-above is generic. We suggest you consult a doctor or an expert immediately to understand your liver’s health, and cholesterol count in the body. Remember, early detection can prevent serious health conditions.