STRESS BUSTER

Both adrenaline and cortisol trigger the production of bad cholesterol, too much of which can clog the arteries and eventually lead to a heart attack or stroke. Stress hormones triggered by daily stress levels are a direct consequence of high cholesterol levels in the body.

This finding is reported in the latest issue of Health Psychology, published by the American Psychological Association (APA). According to the survey, from a sample of 199 healthy middle-aged men and women, a study found that individuals vary in their cholesterol responses to stress. The conclusion was that a person’s reaction to stress is a mechanism through which higher lipid levels might develop, causing higher cholesterol levels.

But, it’s not only middle-aged people who face a risk with high lipid levels. One of the primary causes of high cholesterol is genetics or family history. If your parents, grandparents, brothers, or sisters have high cholesterol, you and your children may be at risk.

Take for instance, the case of 24-year-old Minol P, a zoology student. He recently found out that he has high cholesterol. He was advised to go on a strict diet by the doctors. This came as a shock to Minol. Little did he know that this disease was hereditary in his family. “I was told to keep off stress as this could lead to heart disorders or even stroke,” Minol adds.

Another factor that increases one’s bad cholesterol level is excess weight and uncontrolled diet. Smoking and drinking add to health problems. Says Rimli Borah, 29, advertising personnel, who weighs 88 kg, “My doctor warned me about controlling my diet and not bring work-related stress back home.” Since Rimli is a chain smoker and an occasional drinker, she faces a risk of bad cholesterol.

Doctors explain that since there is good and bad cholesterol, one needs to be careful about what one eats. While good cholesterol is excellent for health, it’s bad cholesterol which causes hypertension and circulation-related problems which often affect the eye and the brain. “Leading a healthy life, maintaining a balanced diet and keeping one’s mind calm is the key to avoid disasters,” says Dr Satish KV, department of forensic medicine, BMCRI cautions.

Say farewell to cholesterol

* Take a break from stressful situations.
* Start a regular exercise regimen with a focus on walking for a start.
* Stay away from oily and fatty food. Start eating green, leafy vegetables.
* Scan your genetic history for any signs of heredity factors and prepare yourself.
SSTRED