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High cholesterol is a frequent problem today, and many individuals are unaware that they have it. Nutritionist Anjali Mukerjee, in her recent video on Instagram, explains why cholesterol can remain stubbornly elevated even when using statins. Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood that your body needs for proper function. Having too much of the "bad" cholesterol (LDL) leads to an accumulation in your arteries, similar to sludge building up in a pipe. Over time, this buildup can result in serious heart issues such as heart attacks and strokes. The challenge is that high cholesterol often doesn't present any signs, so many people find out they have it only after undergoing a blood test. Key factors that lead to high cholesterol include consuming too many fried or fatty meals, being overweight, lacking sufficient exercise, or having a family history of heart conditions. Statins are drugs that help lower LDL cholesterol by inhibiting an enzyme known as HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, which produces cholesterol. This action decreases the level of "bad" cholesterol in your bloodstream and diminishes the risk of artery blockage and heart issues.
Reasons why your cholesterol medicine may not be effective:
Excessive carbohydrates: It isn't just refined sugars that create problems. Consuming too many complex carbs such as rice, rotis, and grains can also contribute. Too many carbs stimulate your body to create insulin, which reactivates the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme that statins aim to inhibit. This results in your liver generating additional cholesterol even with the medication.
Ongoing inflammation: Chronic inflammation pushes your liver to produce more cholesterol, making it harder to manage cholesterol levels.
What can you do about it?
Cut back on carb consumption, including not just sugars but also excessive rice, rotis, and grains.
Reduce inflammation through the right foods, adequate sleep, and consistent physical activity.
Concentrate on healing the root causes instead of depending solely on medication.
