How does high cholesterol affect heart health?
According to Dr Shuvanan Ray, Head of Cardiology, Fortis Anandapur Hospital, Kolkata (India), high cholesterol levels can significantly affect heart health as it leads to the accumulation of fatty plaques in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis.
This can restrict blood flow, leading to chest pain, blood clots, and even heart attack or stroke. Over time, these plaques can rupture, causing blood clots that can block blood flow to the heart or brain.
Do tomatoes help lower cholesterol?
According to Dr. Srabani Mukherjee, nutritionist at Fortis Anandapur Hospital, Kolkata, India, tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant and its function is to eliminate free radicals, which can lead to heart problems, diabetes, cancer and osteoarthritis.
Also according to a study published in the Journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology, drinking tomato juice regularly can reduce inflammation, insulin resistance and high cholesterol.
How to Manage Cholesterol Levels Effectively
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
- Reduce saturated and trans fats found in high-fat dairy products, red meat, and processed foods.
- Participate in regular physical activity as it can help increase HDL cholesterol and decrease LDL cholesterol.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol as both habits can affect cholesterol levels and heart health.
- Being overweight or obese can lead to high cholesterol levels, so maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is important.
- Chronic stress can affect cholesterol levels, so find ways to manage stress.
