Effect of smoking on cholesterol and health tips

increasing prevalence of smoking

The number of smokers is continuously increasing around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.3 billion people use tobacco, the majority of whom are from low- and middle-income countries. Smoking cigarettes is the most common method, but cigars, hookahs, khainis, pipes, gutka and hand-rolled beedis are other forms of tobacco.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy fat, which is essential for the body. It does not dissolve directly in the blood, so it travels through the body through lipoproteins. Lipoprotein is a mixture of protein and fat, which transports cholesterol throughout the body through the blood.

Types of LDL and HDL

LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) is considered bad cholesterol. If its levels increase, it can form plaque on artery walls, increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack. On the other hand, HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) is called good cholesterol, which carries excess cholesterol to the liver and removes it from the body.

Effect of smoking on cholesterol

One study found that smokers have a worse lipid profile than non-smokers. Triglycerides are higher in men by 9.6% and in women by 16.9%. Quitting smoking improves lipid levels, but its effects may be long-lasting.

Smoking harms cholesterol

Smoking speeds up the process of cholesterol accumulation in the body. Chemicals in cigarette smoke, such as acrolein, affect the function of HDL and increase the oxidation of LDL. Due to this, cholesterol does not reach the liver and remains in the blood.

risk of heart diseases

Smoking increases triglyceride levels, which increases the chance of blood clots. This causes the blood vessels to narrow, which can impair blood flow to the heart and brain.

Ways to keep cholesterol balanced

Avoid sugary beverages.

Quit smoking.

Take a walk after lunch.

Use the stairs.

Exercise 150 minutes a week.

Do not consume alcohol.

Eat kidney beans, porridge, pear and apple.

Avoid trans fats.

Include foods containing omega-3 fatty acids.

If the doctor has prescribed medicine, take it regularly.

When to contact a doctor

Chest pain, extreme fatigue, difficulty breathing, pain or numbness in arms and legs.

If in the lipid profile test, LDL is more than 100 mg/dL or HDL is less than 40 mg/dL.