What if your doctor told you your cholesterol was low? Is that even something to worry about?
Yes, it definitely is. When cholesterol becomes too low and unregulated, the side effects of low cholesterol on the body can and will negatively affect your health. But how low is too low?
We’ll cover everything you need to know about low cholesterol, especially when it comes to the side effects.
Side Effects of Low Cholesterol on the Body
Low cholesterol levels in the body are generally considered to be a good thing. However, there are potential side effects associated with low cholesterol that should be taken into consideration.
Side effects of low cholesterol can include depression, anxiety, and mental confusion. Long-term effects of low cholesterol can include anemia, thinning of the bones, and increased risk of certain types of cancer.
The American Heart Association states that the ideal range of cholesterol is between 150-200 mg/dL, so it is important to have regular cholesterol checks to be sure that it does not fall below this range. If it does, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise should be implemented in order to bring it back up.
If these measures are not taken, then medication may be required in order to restore a healthy cholesterol balance.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms
Low cholesterol can have serious health consequences. Individuals with low cholesterol levels may experience fatigue, weak muscles, confusion, and high blood pressure. If low cholesterol has been present for an extended period of time, people may experience symptoms such as the following:
- rapid or irregular heartbeats
- numbness or tingling in their extremities
- decreased energy or motivation
Other signs of low cholesterol include changes in mood, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty sleeping. Low cholesterol can be dangerous, so it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms. Regular cholesterol screenings can alert individuals when their cholesterol levels become too low and can counsel individuals on lifestyle changes to bring ideal cholesterol levels back to normal.
Strategies to Safely Increase Cholesterol Levels
Low cholesterol levels can contribute to an increased risk of more serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, and death. Therefore, it is important not to let cholesterol levels drop too low and to employ strategies to increase cholesterol levels in the body safely. These strategies may include the following:
- increasing dietary fat intake
- exercising regularly
- avoiding trans fats
- limiting sugary foods
- processed foods
- supplementing with niacin
- adding omega-3 fats to the diet
With the right plan, you can ensure that your cholesterol levels are balanced and stay within the healthy range. Learn more details about cholesterol here.
Understanding the Side Effects of Low Cholesterol
There are serious side effects of low cholesterol on the body if left untreated, from poor vision to cognitive decline. To ensure optimal health and well-being, it is important to maintain a healthy cholesterol level. It is best advised to visit a doctor to discuss any concerns or risk factors for low cholesterol and to monitor your lifestyle accordingly.
Don’t let low cholesterol put your health at risk, be proactive and start a health regimen today!
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